Who makes that decision, that the student is at his/her highest level?

I yam what I yam....Popeye

Speaking from a high school point of view: In a perfect world....if the student continues to fail the same class (or classes) over and over and no amount of remediation has been effective, then perhaps another route would need to be considered. Certain math classes aren't for all, however, learning to keep a checkbook, or shop for sales, is for almost all. Would you agree with that?

Biology and chemistry aren't for everyone, but learning how to cook and properly store food serves almost all. Do you agree with that?

Some kids just don't like school, but have a high level of interest in auto mechanics. Why not let them explore all their options in that area?

Did you know that our current diploma tracks are changing? From what I understand, there will be one diploma track that includes four years of math and science for all. Personally, I don't believe that there is anything wrong with one graduating from high school with a skill and being able to secure a job without having had algebra. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE math. I majored in math, but I know that it is not for everyone. Not everyone gets it. So what?

I truly believe there is something for everyone. The high school I went to (in NJ) had a class where the kids actually built and sold a house. They were plumbers, electricians, a/c and framers when they graduated. What an awesome program. What wonderful skills with which those students started their lives. Twenty-five years later (ok, 28), add some basic business classes to a scenario such as that and we've got a well-rounded, productive member of society. But...that's a perfect world and I just don't see it happening.

By the way, I have no idea how the elementary school teachers do it. Out of all three levels, I believe they truly have the toughest job. I would be curious to hear/read their thoughts on this.

Oh yea...to answer your question: I have no idea who makes the decisions. I suppose in some extreme cases it is the parents and the school system. For the general public, who knows? The state?

Apparently doesn't work.
I know I took "Shop" "Bookkeeping" "Shorthand" "Spelling", etc., instead of Trigonometry, French, Choir, Chemistry ll, and "Composing Literature."
I took most Math later on my own, along with Drafting, Blueprint reading, etc.
Nothing wrong with last two years of HS being at an Industrial Arts school!
HS diplomas then could be issued in college prep and regular basics.

Fair enough.

I yam what I yam....Popeye