On Point | Podcast The push to eliminate honors programs in schools
May 28, 2025
Carol Corbett Burris, an education advocate and former principal, and Scott Peters, a research director at NWEA, dive into the hot-button issue of eliminating honors programs in schools. They discuss the tension between promoting equity and maintaining academic rigor. Perspectives from parents and educators reveal concerns about high-achieving students being left behind. The conversation emphasizes the need for diversified curricula and effective teacher training to support all learners amidst ongoing educational reforms.
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Palo Alto Honors Biology Debate
- Palo Alto's school board voted to eliminate honors biology despite teachers' support for detracking.
- Parents and students opposed, fearing advanced learners would be held back.
Detracking's Core Goal
- Detracking aims to give all students equal opportunities to excel regardless of background.
- The best curriculum should be accessible to every student, not just the top track.
Key Steps for Detracking Success
- Implement detracking gradually starting from lower grades with excellent teacher training.
- Provide extra support like tutoring and teaching assistants to help diverse learners.
