HB 1758, Running Start, and the death of high school

A while ago, Running Start was in danger of stumbling before the finish line. The current budget mess seemed to present an opportunity to sideline the program, or at least scale it back, but lawmakers seem intent on further strengthening it.

HB 1758, discussed by the Times' Chantal Anderson (no relation), is a case in point.

Running Start students juggling both college and high school may soon be able to graduate from both without completing high school requirements, as long as they complete an Associate's Degree, technical program, or receive a professional certificate....

The Washington Education Association supports the bill.

"If getting an AA degree at an accredited Washington State community or technical college, or completing a professional technical certificate isn't proof of proficiency in basic skills then I think we might as well just give up," said Wendy Rader-Konofalski lobbyist for the organization. "Because I believe that would in fact satisfy those requirements."

Some will complain that this only cements the status of community colleges as High School Plus, and hastens the demise of the traditional high school. I don't know what's so wrong with that--especially if it means that something smarter arises in its place.