Editor, Gazette-Journal:
Virginia released the Standards of Learning (SOL) test results that were covered in a recent paper. Despite a rather opaque discussion by local officials, our students are (again) not measuring up to state standards. Most troubling is the realization that American students continue to decline as compared to other industrial nations.
If our children (grandchildren) are not competent in reading, writing, math and science, they will struggle to move beyond the most basic livelihood and avail themselves of the opportunities America can provide. An educated public is necessary for everyone’s well-being, as well as national standing and defense.
To correct the situation, many “experts” say more funding is necessary.
The data shows otherwise.
The National Report Card, a government report, consistently reveals that funding levels are unrelated to learning achievement.
A most promising approach to address school failures is a program known as school choice. This is simp...