After six public hearings and lots of outcry, a state Board of Education committee has modified its plans for redesigning high school curriculum in Idaho. Gone are requirements for 6th through 8th graders to have at least a C average in all core courses in order to get into high school, for high school students to match their elective classes to a career focus, and for a “post-secondary readiness plan” that students now prepare in 8th grade to be moved back to 6th grade. But the rest of the program is largely intact, aimed at requiring more math and science for Idaho high schoolers, along with a senior project and a requirement for all students to take the ACT, SAT or Compass test by the end of 11th grade.
Board member Sue Thilo said, “The board received hundreds of comments on the high school proposal. … We’ve listened and reviewed the comments carefully. … The revised plan will increase rigor in key subjects in our schools, ensuring every year in high school counts.”
The proposal goes to the state board on Nov. 16; to take effect, it needs approval from the state Legislature.
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