Excellent post ty, thanks for taking the time.
What is the solution? As I've mentioned, I know 2 people with HS diplomas that are functionally illiterate. Do I blame the teachers? Not for the one, who was a little, not slow but LD (he was actually pretty smart in many ways). But why did they pass?
I understand the terrain bit btw. I've got an essay by the head of Cleveland schools back when they were excellent (1900??) and he comes right out and says 'you can't make a silk purse out of a sows' ear'
Pete