If it were your student, what would you want?

Imagine your high school junior has failed a couple of classes (but has met all other requirements such as the WASL) and therefore is not on track to graduate. He/she could retake the classes in summer or the following school year, and hope to improve the grade, or....

Imagine your student in a novel program, taking a very short, computerized class on a pass/fail standard. He/she won't improve GPA-wise and may not learn as much about the subject, but he/she WILL remain on track to receive that high school diploma, which provides more options for a future.

A Maryland school district is testing that program, saying it appeals to students who are at risk for dropping out. It also saves the district money as it doesn't have to hire teachers for additional classes. Other districts use a similar program, not for credit recovery, but to offer additional courses.

Some educators question the program, saying it lowers expectations and "doesn't help [students] go onto post-secondary education, which really should be our goal." Well, I'm all for high expectations, but maybe we should also be trying something different to help the kids the current system is shortchanging?

We know the lack of credits is the number one reason students don't graduate in four years. We also know that sophomores and juniors are smart enough to realize when they're not on track to graduate, and that many will subsequently drop out or check out.

If it were your student, would you want him/her to repeat the course for a passing grade, or the ability to pass/fail an abbreviated on-line course?