While other states encourage students to take the ACT or SAT and apply to college, the state of Maine has made it a graduation requirement.
It's The Law
Maine is below average in college graduations compared to other states. So, House Speaker Glenn Cummings, a former teacher, decided to make it a law to apply to college. In order for you to receive a diploma, you must apply at one college and the state will even pay the application fee up to $20.
The Benefits
At first students were indignant at being told they had to apply at a college. But, once they applied, they could see the positives.
- Students saw themselves as possible college material.
- Students visited more than one college and broadened horizons.
- Students chose a career track in order to select a major.
- And, students are attending in greater numbers.
Mandatory SATs
Maine has also made the SAT test mandatory as a state assessment. Since students had to take the SAT anyway, they had their scores. As they compared their scores to college data, many learned that they were indeed college material.
The state of Maine has now improved the lifestyle for future generations. Students are more likely to attend college, learn a career, and provide a better lifestyle for their future families. Hats off to Maine.
Related articles: College Preparation--Good or Poor?, FAFSA For Dummies, Predicting the Cost of College.
Read previous articles on Educational Issues.
Copyright article 2007 Barbara Pytel. All Rights Reserved.
