For you non-Michiganders, the new MI Merit Curriculum has one of the most rigorous graduation requirements in our nation. To graduate, students in MI must complete the following requirements:
- 4 credits of English language arts
- 4 credits of science (1 credit each of: Biology, Chemistry or Physics and 1 additional year of a science class)
- 4 credits of mathematics (1 credit each of: Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra II, and an additional math class during their senior year)
- 3 credits of social science/studies (1 credit each of: U.S. history & geography, World history & geography and 1/2 credit each of: Economics and Civics)
- 2 credits of world language
- 1 credit of physical education/health
- 1 credit of visual & performing arts
- 1 Online Learning Experience credit
- Take & Pass the MI Merit Exam
Elective courses create well-rounded individuals, by allowing them to learn about a variety of topics of their choice (from nutrition, to woodworking, music and automotive technology). Many kids not only want to take electives because of the unique topics, but many of them need to take them to stay interested in school. Electives have a different environment than core classes. Because they do not have to "teach to the test", they can be more laid-back, open to discuss topics on students minds, and create less pressure on students. This does not mean that electives are "blow off" courses. They are just a different way to teach students--rather than making them sit through a course they are uninterested in and that they may feel like they cannot succeed in, due to past experiences.
Pelham Memorial High School in New York has the right idea. Last year they added 17 new electives to their curriculum--such as jewelry making and history or rock 'n roll. A great article in the New York Times (found at: www.nytimes.com/2008/10/27/education/27electives.html), entitled, "High Schools Add Electives to Cultivate Interests" explains how some schools in different states are taking a different approach to preparing students for post-secondary education and the workforce. One senior in the article noted that by offering electives, "It's letting people learn about what they love rather than dictating what they should be learning."
Did I mention that the MI Merit Curriculum is for ALL students? That includes students taking special education courses. They are not exempt for the curriculum. A number of people think that the new curriculum may increase dropout rates. If students are forced to repeat courses that they failed (remember, they MUST pass all 4 years of math, for example) the likelihood that they will complete all their requirements is slim to none for many students. Sam Wohns, a graduate of East Grand Rapids this year, believes the dropouts rates will rise and that electives are not what is best for students. He went so far as to go to the state House Education Committee to discuss his concern. (See the article at: www.mlive.com/news/grand-rapids/index.ssf/2008/09/east_grand_rapids_senior_speak.html). He feels that electives courses "have great value and do a great deal to prepare students for the real world."
As an elective teacher I feel strongly about the importance of electives, giving kids choices in their education, and helping to prepare students for the "real world". Everything we do in my classes (like so many electives) is directly related to preparing students for real life. I teach an Independent Living/Consumer Education course which educates students about their finances and living out on their own (Budgeting, writing checks, staying out of debt, establishing credit, renting an apartment, buying a home, buying/leasing a car, writing a resume & cover letter, practicing interview skills, insurance basics, etc.). Many parents at parent teacher conferences tell me, "This should be a required course". Actually, a lot of my students say the same thing on their final thoughts about the class. I also teach a Foods & Nutrition course covering topics such as: evaluating eating habits, choosing the right foods in the right proportions, weight management, nutrient functions, eating disorders, and more. Talk about "Real Life" preparation. If more students had the choice to take my classes, we might see less headlines like "Childhood obesity at a new high" or "Teenagers are the fastest growing identity theft victims".
In conclusion, I wish that Michigan would be more open minded about how we can do what is best for students. Do we really think these new requirements are what is going to change this economy around? Some Michigan legislators think that all students need to go to college to be prepared for the workforce. Look around. I see as many, if not more, people with college degrees unemployed as I do high school graduates (and some high school dropouts). Many of the college-educated are moving out of state.
How is it that this is helping Michigan students or businesses, again?
