Consider needs of each student

Representatives Brad Daw and John Dougall want the bar raised in high school so that we can compete in the global economy. They need to get their facts straight and consider the individual needs of every student.

First of all the UBSCT is given in 10th grade to all students with two additional opportunities for those who do not pass it the first time. It is not necessary to take it three times. Most students don't need to take it more than once. These Reps want to dismiss anyone from taking this exam who has been a high achiever on the college entrance exams. However, most college entrance exams are taken beginning with the 11th grade — after the UBSCT has been administered in the 10th grade.

They also want to make high school more rigorous by raising the number of core requirements in science, math and English.

That would happily be the goal of some students. Others need a class or two that allows them to do things they enjoy: sing, dance, do art projects, act, take photos, learn to repair a car, prepare for a career. The senior year is not wasted by these young people. The opportunity to do many of these activities will never arise again.

Deborah Veater

South Jordan