Baltimore Schools May Change Graduation Requirements
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Baltimore Schools Consider Changes to Graduation Requirements
Summary:
For years, seniors in Baltimore schools have needed to meet specific educational requirements, often through standardized tests like the SAT or ACT. However, many students struggle not due to a lack of knowledge but because they are poor test-takers. This has prompted Baltimore County Public Schools, in collaboration with Maryland state officials, to explore alternative assessment methods for graduation.
Article:
For decades, graduating seniors in Baltimore have been required to demonstrate their academic achievements through standardized tests such as the SAT or ACT. While these tests work well for some, many students find them challenging. This isn't necessarily because they haven't learned the material, but because they struggle with the testing process itself. Some students lack effective test-taking skills, while others experience anxiety that hinders their performance, resulting in scores that don't truly reflect their knowledge.
Recognizing these challenges, the leaders of Baltimore County Public Schools, along with the state of Maryland, are considering additional ways to assess student success. Currently, students must pass four High School Assessments in algebra, biology, American government, and English by their senior year to graduate. This one-size-fits-all approach doesn't accommodate the diverse learning styles and needs of students. Teachers work hard over 13 years to provide personalized learning experiences, whether for students needing extra math help, those learning English, or those seeking more challenging courses. Therefore, it's essential to recognize that not all students learn or demonstrate their knowledge in the same way.
Maryland Schools Superintendent Nancy S. Grasmick has proposed an alternative for students who consistently struggle with these exams: a senior project. This option aims to address concerns that at least 2,000 students from the Class of 2009 might not graduate due to poor test performance. Under the proposed plan, students could pursue a senior project in subjects where they've been unable to pass the exams, provided they've succeeded in at least two of the four required tests. Grasmick emphasizes that these projects would be rigorous, demanding a full year's commitment from students.
However, critics argue that offering this alternative might lead students to take the exams less seriously. Additionally, some believe it's unfair to require students to fail before being given the option to pursue a project. Teachers often maintain portfolios of student work throughout the year, offering a comprehensive view of a student's progress and learning. It's important to provide students and teachers with multiple assessment options that accurately reflect their achievements.
In summary, Baltimore Schools are reevaluating graduation requirements to better suit the varied learning styles of their students, potentially allowing more students to achieve their diplomas through alternative methods.
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