Taking and succeeding at difficult courses in the senior year of high school may provide the confidence students need in the competitive world of higher education. . . . Quite possibly a student's willingness to take on challenging classes all four years of high school is just as good if not a better predictor of success than grades. The question is how to make it viable. . . . . . Senior year is not the end but the beginning for our students. Senior year is not the year to take off or get a break.
Senior year is an investment in the future.
Postsecondary education is not cheap. Failure is expensive, not just in terms of money but also in terms of self-esteem and confidence. Challenges can be their own reward. I hope the senior year will be a challenge for all students. National statistics show that high school students who complete advanced coursework in mathematics and science consistently perform better in postsecondary education and also earn higher salaries in the workforce.