Letter to the Editor: Is testing emphasized today over teaching?

To the Editor:

Many years ago, before 1940, most states had students take a test when they finished the eighth grade. If they passed the test, they could go on to high school. If not, they could keep trying to pass it until they were 16. When they were 16, they were told to go get a job. I have copies of the test that was very difficult.

Looking recently at the percentage of students who graduated from college after four years, it is very obvious that we possibly have too many young people who are not college material. Perhaps high school should identify students as college ready or career rea...