Future project: Expecting more not less best way to encourage students

It might seem like a lot of work and more headaches for the schools, but the decision to require North Carolina seniors to do significant work before they get their diplomas is nothing short of dead on correct.

By demanding that these young people not only complete a paper and their exams, but also that they do a little exploring into what they would like to do for a career, sends a message that there will be expectations after high school other than college parties.

And as many of those who will be hiring those young people when they come out of college will tell you, there are a whole bunch of them who could really use a little preparation and a whole lot more direction.

The world is a competitive place and will continue to be so when these seniors graduate from college.

If we train them now that they need to earn honors, accolades and graduation certificates, and that they will need to have made some decisions about their futures before they leave the safety of their college experience, perhaps we might give them the leg up they need to live successful and happy lives.

And for those who might not go on to college, the project component allows them to try out a career that requires expertise and technical training. Work experience of any kind is always a plus.

The rule is demand more, get more, when it comes to young people and performance. It is nice to see someone expecting more from Wayne County’s students.

Published in Editorials on April 29, 2008 10:36 AM