Expanding what constitutes failure and the opportunity to fail is a
key premise of the current "reforms" in education. So called standards
set arbitrarily and high stakes tests tied to these arbitrary standards
are a key element.
In Texas this has taken the form of test performance on the TASS being
the sole criteria for passing a course and passing from grade to grade.
All marks are percentages and with the passing score set at 70% the D
has effectively been eliminated. In Bush's Texas there is a huge build
of kids in the 9th grade who can't pass enough courses to move into the
10th grade. And of course many states have instituted high stakes tests
that will deny those who fail them from diplomas. That will drive many
out school when they are 16 and legally able to leave.
Ken Goodman
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