Dropping out a matter of choice

President Obama claims there is a big problem with high school dropouts, saying that "only" 70 percent of students starting high school actually graduate. He also says that the schools are failing the kids and some of them and should probably be closed if this continues.

I think a 70-percent success graduation rate means the great majority of students do graduate. Also, it is an American right to have schools provided for all who are interested in learning.

Furthermore, the 70 percent that do graduate are also contributing to their own success by going to class, doing their homework and studying for exams. Their parents should also be given credit for encouraging them, helping with homework, etc.

Should we be concerned about the 30 percent who do drop out? Of course, but it is their choice to do by not doing their part by attending classes regularly, not doing their homework and not studying for exams; they may be also be unmotivated by parents that do not value education highly themselves and who are unwilling or unable to help their kids with homework. It is these kids will feel the consequences of that for all their lives.

Donald B. Abbs

Elgin