No Harm, No Foul

The State Board of Education voted 10-5 to give preliminary approval of a plan to increase the credit received for playing sports in high school. This was a response to the idea that athletics could be in jeopardy following an increase in the requirements of other core curricula. With dropout rates hovering around 11.5%, and some school districts changing to an eight period school day, it could be difficult to retain students in the future. This move makes sense to me in an effort to keep students interested in their education.

Currently, a student must complete 4 electives in order to graduate, with only 1 1/2 credits given to physical education. In addition, students are required to complete 2 1/2 other electives to receive their diploma; the new standard is only going to effect those credits. While taking art, band, or choir are certainly healthy pursuits and deserve encouraging, some students are just not interested or talented in those areas. I say that if sports will keep a student learning, it's a good thing to the person full credit for participating.

This move by the State Board of education seems both reasonable and proactive to me if they are implementing increased standards for core curriculum. So long as the students must maintain passing grades in their classes to participate in sports, I think that extracurricular activities should be fully rewarded. Since the only classes being affected by this move are other extracurricular activities, I support this idea.

Great work in giving the facts behind your opinion-money. You have definitely fleshed out the history behind your argument, as well. Very thoughtful and timely post. Editorial found in 3-2-1836.