The Changing Landscape of High School Valedictorians and Scholastic Competition
For many years, being a Valedictorian or Salutatorian or even ranking in the top 10 of one's graduation class was a surefire way to secure admission to prestigious universities and scholarships. However, with the ever-evolving dynamics of college admissions, it now appears that such traditional ranking systems are losing their significance.
College Admissions: Beyond Class Ranking
Unfortunately, being a top student in high school no longer guarantees acceptance to Ivy League schools. While high school rank can still provide a competitive edge, admissions officers are looking for a more holistic view of a student's abilities and character. Furthermore, even being in the top 10 does not always secure full scholarships. Thus, class rank has almost disappeared from many schools' curricula.
The Rise of AP and Advanced Classes
To stay ahead of the curve, many students are now enrolling in Advanced Placement (AP) courses and classes that grant college credit. AP classes offer an advantage, placing students on a 5.0 scale rather than the traditional 4.0 scale in some districts, providing yet another metric for college applications.
This shift towards more rigorous coursework has raised ethical concerns, particularly regarding how it benefits or disadvantages certain students. For instance, in districts that utilize a 5.0 scale for AP courses versus a 4.0 scale for regular classes, this system is seen as unfair to regular students, transfer students, and immigrants. As a result, many districts have adopted an 80% rule that mandates no more than 80% of students can achieve an A or A in AP classes. This change aims to ensure a more balanced and fair assessment system.
The Dilemma of College Acceptance
The pursuit of college acceptance in a highly competitive environment can be overwhelming. Many high school students are loading up on AP classes they don't need or like, neglecting courses they are genuinely interested in, and even taking summer health classes on a pass/fail basis to boost their GPA. This zealous drive to excel academically sometimes backfires, diluting the true value of these achievements.
As a teacher, I’ve observed that making high school a high-stakes game can add unnecessary stress to already challenging years. We don't need to overcomplicate the school experience by emphasizing competition so intensely. The kids deserve a balanced and fulfilling high school experience.
Personal Success Stories
Despite the shift in ranking systems, there are still plenty of shining examples of students who have thrived in college and beyond, even if they didn't top the class rankings in high school. My own three sons exemplify this success:
The oldest son graduated from UC Berkeley summa cum laude and valedictorian in Pure Mathematics and has since had a successful career as an arbitrageur and hedge fund manager. The middle son, while not a valedictorian at UC Berkeley, graduated from Duke Law School summa cum laude and valedictorian and maintains the highest GPA in the school's history. He is now a full professor in law at the University of North Carolina. The youngest son, while being an All-American Lacrosse player, graduated cum laude in Economics from Yale and is now working for a prestigious private equity firm. He has plans to pursue an MBA and will likely graduate summa cum laude.These experiences demonstrate that true success is more nuanced than a simple ranking in high school. It is about excelling in one's chosen field and making a positive impact in various aspects of life.
Conclusion
The increasing competition for college acceptance and the elimination of traditional class rankings have made high school a more complex and demanding environment. However, with the right balance and guidance, students can still achieve success not just in college but in life. The achievements of my children serve as a testament to the value of a holistic education and the importance of nurturing a student's passion and character.