Just because not all advanced courses are available to every student everywhere in a particular school district does not mean prejudice is the reason (“All NYC children deserve advanced coursework,” New York Daily News, Dec. 28). Yet that is the conclusion too often reached.
The reality is that not all students benefit from such rigorous instruction. Some have no interest in pursuing an academic curriculum. Yes, we can offer such courses to them, but they will not likely be motivated enough to be successful.
That’s why I’ve long been an advocate for vocational education. It recognizes that young people differ widely in their ability and aptitude. When welders today, for example, command salaries of $150,000, who can say they are being shortchanged?
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