By Taylor Beck
(MDN News) -- The state House Education Committee looked at two measures Wednesday, Feb. 13, that would require more from Missouri high schoolers before they graduate.
The first bill, sponsored by Rep. Dave Hinson, R-St. Clair, looks to require students to enroll in math and science courses their last two semesters before entering higher education. Currently, students are required to take three years of math and science courses, so many choose not to take one their senior years of high school. Hinson said this causes problems when they enter college and haven't studied math or science for two or more years.
Some opponents worry it will hurt districts in rural areas and limit students' options.
"If you mandate what students have to take it gives them very little as far as electives," said Larry Davis, who spent 30 years as a superintendent for schools in Missouri, South Dakota and North Dakota.
Davis also said the state requires "enough" of students, and passage of this bill could hinder vocational technology programs which are very popular in rural areas.
Tim Wolfe, president of the University of Missouri System, said he was not sure if the bill was the best way to go or not, but did not oppose or support it.
"Employers in this state are telling us at the university that we are simply not producing enough graduates in science, technology, engineering and math fields," Wolfe said.
The committee also heard another bill that would require students to take certain end of course exams before receiving their high school diplomas. Bill sponsor Rep. Bryan Spencer, R-Wentzville, said it would be a more accurate way to see how students will perform in college and beyond.
The committee did not vote on either bill, but did approve a measure to ban bullying in schools as well as a bill requiring schools to publish a letter-grade report card for each school building to the House.
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