Marking one year of 'Fat Chance' plan
Feb. 10 marked the one-year anniversary of a day that will go down in infamy in High Point's history. One year ago, the High Point "Choice Plan," better known as the "Fat Chance Plan," was established. Recently, one school board member recently called it the "random assignment" plan.
At least they aren't insulting the public by saying "choice" anymore.
"Black Tuesday," the beginning of an emotional upward spiral of chaos and instability for High Point families, will also be remembered as a day when complacency disappeared.
The plan was supposed to "equalize, relieve overcrowding and fill empty seats." Recent studies by Guilford County Schools show empirical evidence that the plan is not working. There is an increase in suspensions and in the number of students failing one or more courses.
Ironically, on Feb. 10, high school tours and an "options fair" were held. Should the "fair" part be renamed the "Pick Three Lottery"? Please remember those who have gone before you: the proud, the brave, the rising High Point ninth-graders of 2004 and their families.
Barbara McAbee
Jamestown
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