ONE FOR KIMBERLY
Here’s a testing article about Delaware’s three-tiered diploma system. DE has a really screwy program. The kids take a standardized test in 10th grade and, based on the results of that test, when they graduate they are awarded one of three diplomas: distinguished, standard, or basic. This system was implemented in lieu of a make-or-break exit exam.
No one that I know likes the current system and parents are lobbying to scrap it. At a hearing yesterday, a student testified about his experience:
Max Castorani, a senior at Alexis I. du Pont High School, told the committee he scored 1520 on his SAT test, is a National Merit Scholar and a candidate for the presidential scholars program, based on his test scores. But he told the committee that based on his state test he will receive a standard diploma.
It does sound like something may be wrong but, to be fair, all students do have the opportunity to re-take the exam. The article gives no indication if Mr. Castorani availed himself of the option.
My big problem with the system is it’s a big “Who cares?” There are absolutely no ramifications if one gets a standard or distinguished diploma. Colleges have long since made their admissions decisions and businesses are not going to ask to see the diploma. Much ado about not a whole lot.
One Response to “ONE FOR KIMBERLY”
 Comment by SAT November 9th, 2004 at 10:46 pm |