I think the intent here is more like “and then they shall all be equally stupid.” Removing achievement, by grades and class levels, subtly removes incentive.
You're definitely on to something here. There's an ulterior motive in there somewhere. What you suggest is part of it for sure.
That, and they can isolate the trouble makers from the motivated. In this way, they can reinvent some claim of success as waves of academic achievement improve with each graduating class. The problem, of course, is the pool of aging problems that need ‘special education’ and who don’t seem to be able to progress. This, in turn, will call for massive new spending programs while not impinging on the better prepared student’s progress. Eventually, the ‘challenged’ students will drop out since memebership in the elementary class at age 16 will become something of a social liability - problem solved.
Yup. It removes incentive. Dumb ‘em all down.
Good point.
But it is a effective mechanism for achieving mediocrity and building false self esteem.
Grade promotion is almost a given in far too many districts, and not much of an incentive.
It’s kind of like gun laws, immigration laws, etc. They’re worthless unless enforced.
“I think the intent here is more like “and then they shall all be equally stupid.””
You couldn’t be more wrong.
The problem with public school nowadays is that the smart kids sit around waiting for the slower ones to catch up.
This gives the exceptional ones more ability to achieve.