Here is my basic proposal on a new system of public education. What is your opinion?

Question by Jill: Here is my basic proposal on a new system of public education. What is your opinion?
On the Issue of Education

The goal of public education is to provide a well-rounded education as well as an opportunity to follow a more narrowed path towards a desired career. Students will be required to learn the basic subjects: English, math, history, science, music/art, nutrition and physical fitness. Once the core requirements have been completed, students will be able to choose a path, if confident about their career choice, or be able to continue pursuing the liberal arts while be able to experiment with other subjects as well. By providing interests that will cater to all, we hope to decrease the drop out rate and have stronger young men and women entering the workforce upon graduation.

Schooling is mandatory for all children ages five to sixteen unless special circumstances may arise. The federal government will contribute at least forty cents for every dollar spent on public education and more may be allotting if deemed necessary. Since the government is contributing a large amount, certain guidelines will be put into effect concerning how the money is to be spent. Since technology is constantly changing the face of our school system, a committee will be summoned every five years to make adjustments to the current schooling system and budget.

The curriculum will be left to the states to decide but there will be nationalized tests to be sure that all states are providing education at an expectable level. In the sixth grade students will be tested on the following subjects and skills areas:

Reading and interpreting passages and their ability to write
Basic mental math skills and be able to complete problems that will prepare them for higher level math
Analyze scientific graphs and know basic facts of the different divisions of science
Answer multiple choice questions on general United States and world history

Once into high school students will be required to complete a certain number of courses before graduation. This is to give every student a basic knowledge and for those who are unsure of what to do next, this curriculum will help students realize what it is they are truly interested in. Although these courses are required for students, there is the possibility of testing out of the subject to not make learning repetitive and dull. Required courses are as follows:

Three years of English
Two years of math
Two years of world history
One year of United States history
Two years of science
Art history, studio art, history of music or music course
Nutrition and health
Physical fitness

Once the required courses have been completed, or fulfilled by adequate testing, students can choose a track they wish to pursue. There will be upper level courses in all the basic subjects. Schools should also provide courses in computer science, business, drama, film, and other areas schools wish to include. Students may also receive credits through a work-study program if pre-approved by the school. Qualifications for the work study program involve:

School approved job
Reports from employer on employee status
Current resume and ability to make good cover letter
Ability to still take courses in school while maintaining a job (Course load will be lower for those participating in the work study program)

There should also be a trade school where students can become certified in a certain profession by the time they graduate from high school and proceed directly into the work force. Such programs may include but are not limited to:

Auto body repair and technology
Computer technology
Carpentry
Cosmetology
Criminal Justice
Culinary Arts
Early Childhood Education
Electrical Technology
Electronic Technology
Fashion Design
Nursing Assistant
Plumbing/Heating and Air Conditioning
Small Animal Care
Welding

With increased courses being offered to students, number of school buildings themselves will need to be cut to allow all schools to be equal and to adequately use the federal funding. Students may have to commute thirty or more minutes to school each day. Although this will be an inconvenience, schools will provide transportation to and from school and after school activities.

Best answer:

Answer by Southern Belle
I don’t see where this plan is any (or much) different than what is currently in place. I graduated from high school 5.5 years ago and in high school, and I had:

4 years of English/Literature
2 years of Math
4 years of Science
2 years of World History
1 year of US History
1 semester of US Government
1 semester of Economics
1 semester of communications
3 semesters of electives (media/library aide)
1 semester of drama
1 semester of phys ed
2 years of trade school (automotive)

I commuted 44 miles per day for 4 years of high school.

I really don’t see where this plan is much different than what is already offered.

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