Hundreds say high school reform threatens electives – Students, parents, teachers air concerns about requiring more math, science classes

The State Board of Education wants to toughen standards for Idaho middle school and high school students — but it’s not going to happen without a fight.

More than 400 students and their parents, teachers and residents showed up in force Wednesday night at Boise State University to air their concerns about the State Board’s proposal to add more math, science and career emphasis to student schedules.

Idaho ranks 46th for the number of high school graduates who attend college. That’s not good enough, says the State Board. What’s more, 40 percent of those graduates who do go to college need remedial help once they get there. But many students, teachers and parents worry that amped-up requirements will mean less room in kids’ schedules for electives. The arts and humanities, like choir, band, debate and drama, are endangered they say, and those are the very classes that keep some students in school, not to mention make well-rounded citizens.

Anna Webb
The Idaho Statesman

Full Story: http://www.idahostatesman.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20051013/NEWS0104/510130359