Trustee Cappi Quigley, on her final night as a trustee after 20 years of service, does not want students who have worked hard at school and satisfied district course requirements but still fail the exit exam to suffer. The state says no diplomas without passing the test.
Quigley favors giving these students a certificate of completion allowing them to participate in June's commencement ceremonies. District Superintendent Robert Fore also favors "erring on the side of the kids where we can."
Board members and district administrators honored Quigley, who was defeated for re-election earlier this month, at Wednesday's 31/2-hour session at Golden Valley High School with plaques, gifts and accolades.
Trustee Dave Olsen told Quigley she has been the heart and soul of the board for a long time. Board Chairman Bob Weimer said he had served with Quigley for 18 years and they "had a good run." He said Quigley's contributions won't go unrecognized.
Newly elected Trustee Ida Johnson joins the board next month.
"I know change is important. It's been a great ride and I want to thank all of you. She (Johnson) cares about education and I'm happy for her," Quigley said.
On the exit exam issue, Weimer said the board's direction must be clear-cut and precise to avoid future nightmares. State education officials leave graduation participation and certificate decisions to local districts and Weimer doubts if the state will intervene.
Golden Valley High School Principal Ralf Swenson said the state exit exam is insensitive to the needs of special education students, many who have failed it several times. He said there are ways at graduation rites to handle issuance of both certificates of completion and diplomas gracefully.
Assistant Superintendent Sylvia Smith said 223 students at six district schools failed the exit exam last March. Some of these students took the test again earlier this month and Smith is working to get the test given next February instead of March so results will be known by April.
Counselor Wayne Denno said the Merced High counseling staff does not believe students should take part in graduation if they don't satisfy all requirements, including passing the exit exam. He said there ultimately would be consequences if the graduation ceremony is perceived as less meaningful.
Associate Editor Doane Yawger can be reached at 385-2485 or dyawger@mercedsun-star.com.
