Debate Sparks as New York Considers Making Regents Exams Optional, Impacting Academic Standards

New York is considering making Regents exams optional for high school graduation, sparking debate about the impact on academic standards. Critics argue that this move could lead to a deterioration of standards, particularly for low socioeconomic status and disadvantaged minority students. Some believe that objective metrics are being curtailed, while others emphasize the need for higher level learning proof to replace so-so tests. The move has drawn criticism from various sources, including the New York Post's editorial board and the National Review Online's editors.