RE: Question 2: Single curriculum

The concept of a "single curriculum" is complex.  When you factor in available resources to schools and the unequal distribution of resources to districts all contribute to the ability of schools to offer enough sections of required and necessary courses (i.e English, math, sciences, etc.)  A mandated curriculum will contribute to the creation of teacher shortages in high demand subject areas and will drive up the cost of compensation for teachers.  This demand for teachers and resulting demand for higher compensation will dilute the resources available for students.  In the end will be asking ourselves "who won and who lost?"

Is not recommending an "opt out" clause a suggestion that certain elements of our society are incapable of "higher order" learning?   Is it that poor kids can't learn?  I don't think that students plan to enter the work force right out of high school (if they haven't drooped out yet) but it becomes a question of where students get tracked based on environmental factors, much of which educational opportunities (or lack of) infuence.