I like to read about proposals for improving our educational system, that are more creative than just writing a check. I think we now know that just throwing money at a problem does not solve it. Bravo for thinking outside the box.
Just tossing this out as further food for thought:
After 8th grade graduation, require (or allow the option for) youngsters to get a job, apprenticeship or internship for one year, before going on to HS. It you think about it , there are enormous benefits for the youngster. Most kids at that age are full of enthusiasm, and energy, and want to show they are ready for the adult world. The self-confidence boost of earning an income, and being a productive member of society, would aid in fostering a sense of personal responsibility, and hastening their maturity.
Sitting in a classroom at that age, often succeeds at nothing more than unnaturally prolonging their childhood and dependency (especially in their eyes), squashing their enthusiasm, demoralizing them, and in turn encouraging pessimism, insolence, and rebellion.
