Lectures on education

Re “Parents and Students Sue Over School Exit Exam,” Feb. 9

This is just another bunch of folks who take no responsibility for their actions, or lack thereof. In their minds they deserve a high school diploma just because they have healthy self-esteem. What they need is self-respect, which has to be earned. I don’t feel sorry for them. Don’t blame the schools; blame the kids and their parents. Their teachers tried.

TOM COLTON

Arlington, Wash.

If we must have criteria other than attendance and passing grades for graduating students from our school system, algebra should be the last subject considered. A far more important skill that would ensure success in the marketplace is the ability to communicate clearly one’s ideas in conversation, public speaking and writing. But then, if this were the hurdle, our president would not be a high school graduate.

PAUL F. MCKERNAN

Glendale