They complain that because some kids in the class don't care a whit about getting a good education, their knowledge-thirsty child is being compromised. They've got a better idea in Europe. If you want to proceed onto A-levels, as they call them, you better do well in the European equivalent of elementary school. After that, there is university and only the serious minded make it to that level. All European students get a free education up until age 16 but if they want to go higher, they have to earn it.
Promotion is based on getting good grades.
In effect, educators abroad try to make school a privilege instead of an obligation. Locally, our school board wants to instill the same kind of philosophy by creating an academy for stellar students. They would be in English, math, history and science. Students would complete a summer reading list, create a portfolio, do community service and complete a summer project. If such an academy is approved for Springstead, it would not impact the school district's budget, an important fact during this tight budget year.