I have to agree with a recent letter writer. Our children are under a lot of pressure and I believe some of the reasons are as follows:

- They are taught to pass the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test, not to learn the material as a sound basis for further learning.

- Struggling students are either classified as exceptional (to bring in more money to schools) or allowed to be passed along to continue to struggle -- further reducing their chances of learning.

When those students who have not been taught the basics reach high school, they have few alternatives in learning, such as trade schools, apprenticeships or business schools that do not require college-level work. Add to that the diminished self-esteem of those who have struggled -- why would they want to remain in school?

To continue to push our kids along in hopes that they catch up later is irresponsible. Let's get back to basics, and bring back alternatives for those who want to succeed without having to go to college.