LETTERS OT THE EDITOR: POMP AND CIRCUMSTANCE? LATE CHANGE IN REQUIREMENTS DRAWS FIRE: A SIMPLE SOLUTION TO GRADUATION PROBLEM

Dear Editor,

I have a simple solution for ending the controversies, the anger, and the frustrations that arise across our country every year just before graduation ceremonies are performed and diplomas are awarded. I have been advocating this solution to my friends and colleagues for several years. My proposal is that each state issue along with the birth certificate two diplomas -- basically an elementary and a secondary diploma. Also, each state would pass a law requiring that each school hold graduation ceremonies the first Friday of each June. The only requirement for an individual to participate in the graduation ceremonies would be that he or she be 13 or 14 for elementary ceremonies and 17 or 18 for secondary ceremonies. Giving each person the option of participating at either age 13 or 14 for the elementary ceremony or age 17 or 18 for the secondary ceremony would allow the individual to make some choice as to when he or she wanted to move-on; but, again, other than proof of age, there would be no requirement for participation in the graduation ceremony.

With each passing year it seems society in general is less and less concerned with whether or not those being graduated or being granted diplomas really know anything, have mastered subject mattter, or are truly educated individuals. The only real concern seems to be that the individual receive a diploma and be allowed to participate in graduation ceremonies. I know that if my plan were implemented, there would be some individuals who would not bother even to go through the graduation ceremonies. This, however, would be no problem because if the individual had a birth certificate, he or she would have a diploma; and statistically we could show that 100 percent of those whose existence can be proved have a secondary diploma.

I know there would be some opposition to my plan. Those individuals and the parents of those individuals who have a true intellectual curiosity or who feel the real need for subject matter mastery and want a diploma truly to represent achievement would probably complain, but I feel certain they are now such a minority that they really would not be much of a problem.

I sincerely believe that my proposal would go a long way toward restoring some honesty and integrity to our educational system. No longer would we have to spend as much time and energy as we now do to keep up the facade or the pretense that those who are being graduated have truly mastered subject matter and are truly educated individuals.

LAWRENCE AESCHLIMANN

Cape Girardeau