So, US News has again published its picks for the top 100 high schools in the US. It looks like the majority of them are either specialized schools or magnet/charter schools. I noticed none of the “exemplary schools” from my area are included in the list. Even the public schools in the richie-rich areas are not included on the list. Did anyone catch that? I wonder why it is.
Could it be that the one true indicator of success is students want to be at school? Those specialized schools don’t just take whomever falls into the door. You must apply and often win a lottery to be able to attend. Once there, you must maintain a minimum grade average. No skating by as is the case in many public schools. The specialized schools and charter schools weed out those who want an education from those who are simply doing their time.
Where I grew up, charter schools were not an option. Where I live now, the people think the sun rises and sets on the local (overcrowded) school district, and I think they are too vain to allow educational alternatives such as this. So, be thankful if you live in an area with easy access to specialized schools and charter schools!
