Staff report

The Suffolk School Board is making it tougher for students to pass from one grade to the next.

Thank god.

During last Thursday’s meeting, the membership unanimously agreed on policy changes affecting pupils from kindergarten through senior level. Literacy tests for the youngest ones is one example. Beginning with their freshman year, students must obtain &uot;verified units of credit,&uot; which includes a marked increase in proving aptitude in math, English, science, and social studies.

These policy changes will take effect at the beginning of the 2003 school year.

Students can curse this forthcoming burden all they want, but in the end many will be grateful that adults cared enough that they obtain a strong education. In the end, everyone will benefit.