As a veteran of World War II, I hope that some sort of scholastic requirement will be included for diplomas offered to veterans who left high school early because of military service (“Some veterans to get Marysville diplomas,” School FYI, April 13). While veterans certainly appreciate recognition, and while the honorary degree is long established in the academic world, at this level the connection between the award and the achievement is too remote. I would not want to see veterans offered meaningless tokens lacking in scholastic significance.
Moreover, to grant a diploma merely on the basis of service would further dilute the value of an award that too often has represented seat time rather than the completion and/or mastery of course requirements. It’s questionable how much help an empty diploma would be in college entrance or performance.
At a time when they are under WASL pressure to produce better results, school districts considering this action should rethink their plan for honoring the veterans.
Mountlake Terrace
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