School systems different

Barb Brock’s Feb. 12 letter about Finnish student rankings illustrates the need for clarity when quoting statistics. School systems in many European countries separate students at a grade (usually middle school) into two separate paths - straight academics and technical/trade education. Therefore, comparing those stats to the U.S. is like comparing apples to oranges.

Students tested at the high school level in the U.S. are not academically the same as in the population being tested in Europe. Integration of all students in the U.S. and select students in Europe loses statistical credibility if they are compared.

That is not to say there is less value in students in the trade paths. The U.S. does not place as much value in the development of technical and trade subjects as in the goal of pursuing a four-year college education. Big mistake. Comparing the diverse U.S. population to mostly homogenous cultures also skews statistics.

We need to realize that students can be best served by recognizing learning styles, learning goals and providing opportunities to support those students. Leadership should be taught in all pursuits and be integrated into all education.

Judy Lamont

Colbert