Let’s start earning As
Editor, Daily News:
The Collier County Public School system exists exclusively to develop the intellects, bodies and characters of its students.
Fully satisfying that objective requires that all the system’s activities be dedicated solely to maximizing that end. Any deviation therefrom, such as replacing an earned zero grade with an unearned grade of 50, does a grave disservice to our students.
This practice of grade inflation has a negative effect on character building. It teaches that it is acceptable to expect something for nothing; hard work and discipline are not essential to achievement; meritocracy is unimportant; much, by way of desirable results, may be achieved even if much is not expected.
Students who are fed this kind of perverse-values diet are unlikely to become good, productive citizens capable of successfully competing in the increasingly globalized world. And disadvantaged students are, for obvious reasons, likely to be the main victims. This “feel good” pop-psychology approach to education has been thoroughly discredited long ago.
In any event, the best interest of our future citizens demands that it be discontinued immediately. It is not a necessary precedent to introducing remedial efforts. Indeed, any well-run school system should normally assist students who, for whatever reasons, perform below their assessed potential, through after-school and other such programs. Linking these two processes only creates unnecessary confusion.
Superintendent Dennis Thompson’s introduction of this very questionable practice, without bothering to consult the community, is yet another instance of putting his ego ahead of our students’ well-being.
The students deserve better.
C.C., Naples
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To "C.C." --
I think you are a big doo-doo head.
Signed,
Dennis Thompson
Doctorite in Ed Psych
$UPERINTENDENT
