The pros and cons of early high school graduation

   Two students plan to graduate from Buffalo's Burgard High School in just three years, giving them an early start on their college studies and career plans.

   City school officials view that development as a positive not only for the students --  Kiara Taggart and Michael Conrath -- but for Burgard as well.

   They say it reflects an expanded menu of course offerings there, an increase in instructional time, the elimination of study halls, the growth of extracurricular activities and higher expectations for students.

   But while educators applaud the drive and determination of students like Kiara and Michael, they say careful thought should be given to the broader issue of early high school graduations.

   Are individuals students mature enough to handle the demands of college or work a year earlier than normal? Are they better off staying in high school a fourth year to tackle extra courses and opportunities for career exploration? Is it worth missing out on senior prom, class trips and sharing graduation day with classmates?

   When the issue arises in some of the area's larger suburban high schools, the advice from educators is often to stay for the fourth year.

   Both Kiara and Michael are eager to graduate early, and Burgard Principal Florence Krieter said they are in a position to succeed.

   "In the case of these two young people, we believe they're ready to go to college," she said. "They're prepared."

   What are your thoughts about early high school graduation?

   -- Peter Simon

Comments

[Lydia Bezou-Hojnacki]

Congratulations to Michael Conrath, one of the best students I ever had. Michael, you have a bright future ahead--you will succeed! Thank you, Michael, for enriching my life.

Early graduation? Everyone should be so lucky to have the drive and perseverance to complete their education when they're ready. Many others have done so.

[HapKlein]

I have had a lifetime experience with education. I dropped out of high school then in the army got my GED.

Afterward I attended UB and carried a solid B average but finances forced me to drop out in my junior year. Later in my 40's I returned to UB to aid my career and improve my abilities.

Through all of this I have been a constant reader of technology (computers), history and current events.

I learned to enjoy the learning experience not only as a tool but also as an enabler opportunity to work with others who were pursuing education for many many reasons.

Based on the all of the above I think that education is much more than a an enabling experience. It is a social dynamic as well by which folk in generally the same age and capability groups learn to cooperate and work together.

I hope them well but I fear that a person who is entirely focused on truncating the social side of education would find themselves a bit isolated at the college level when they encounter equally capable students who also have more easily communicative.

The time of education really should be a savored time that allows contemplation and conversation with our contemporaries as important as what we learn in class. In my 20 some years of formal education I remember more classmates than I do instructors.

[PJA]

These kids are too young to be graduating early and attending college. They might be ready academically but not socially or emotionally. I think it's a bad idea.

[Lets Get Reel]

I graduated high school at the age of 17. That was my senior year. I personally dont think i was "too young" to graduate. I was one of the youngest in my graduating class.

Congrats! To both of you! Good luck in all your future endeavors. Dont pay attention to the nasty things people will say on these posts. You go for the gold, shoot for the stars!

[Jibreel Riley]

Pros: Quicker to get started with life
Cons: less indoctrination from Union Teachers... Wait thats a good thing

[Lydia Bezou-Hojnacki]

Some of the best and brightest in other states have the opportunity to begin sitting for the GED exam at age 14. Then, after passing, they go on to college. No big deal if the kid can handle it. I know one former student (was in my eighth grade) who went directly from eighth grade to community college on the college entrance exam and sat for the GED during his freshman year in college. Passed it, of course.

One problem: the military academies will not take kids who will graduate before age 21, or who will begin military training prior to age 17 1/2.

[Pres. McKinley]

Wow! Great accomplishment. I wish them the best of luck. But I really think they will be missing out on some valuable experiences as a senior in the Buffalo Public Schools just ask last year's senior Javonna

[pgr88]

Given that half of NY State high school students don't graduate on time (or at all), we need more kids like this to help the average!!

[oil of olay]

WELL I guess these students from a dumb school like Burgard just proved Dr. Williams idea about a longer school day and school year on its head by getting out of an underpreforming school in less than four years.

These kids can do anything if they want to. That's what he hasn't figured out yet.

[McBea]

Graduatiing early is great if you can do it. Going away to school early, maybe not so much. Starting college at a younger age would probably best be done while living at home rather than in the dorms. I started college away from home at 17 at it was a tough go for a while there.

[Apex]

I just turned sixteen mere days ago, and I will be graduating high school this year. My advice, go for it! But definitely know what you're going to miss. If you feel mature enough to handle life on your own, the only way to find out if you're right is by jumping in.