Action | 2007-2008 revisions |
Stage | Proposed |
Comment Period | Ended on 11/5/2008 |
Dear Members of the Board of Education:
I am a Virginia resident and a strong supporter of our public schools. I appreciate the Board's efforts to make graduation rates a priority for Virginia high schools, but given the importance of producing graduates ready for college, work, and life, I'm writing to ask that you take a stronger stand.
Students who graduate from high school significantly increase their prospects for a productive, stable and successful future. Graduation from high school is a critical indicator that students will be able to benefit from and contribute to the workforce, economy and society and this will benefit all Virginia residents.
Please increase the target to at least 90 points, OR adjust the graduation and completion index so that it gives schools more points for Standard and Advanced Diplomas and fewer points for all alternative diplomas and other credentials. I am especially concerned about the points awarded to certificates of program completion. There is no evidence that they provide any benefit to students.
I'd like to ask that you ensure the new standards provide:
Thank you for your consideration. I hope you'll do all that you can to increase the number of students who successfully graduate ready to fulfill their greatest potential.
Sincerely,
Catherine J. Rotolo
1344 Stonegate Court
Crozet, VA 22932