Hacker News new | ask | show | jobs
by throwaway90999 4182 days ago
The field of history is fascinating and valuable but I completely understand this attitude towards history classes in the public high school system.

If you're really interested in history take a college level course. Grade and high school history subjects often contain absurdly simplified material -- sometimes to the point of incorrectness. One can miss high school history entirely and end up better informed.
1 comments
alistairSH 4182 days ago
> If you're really interested in history take a college level course.

This generally doesn't require dropping out of school. Most public high schools offer AP/IB courses, which are the equivalent of 1st year college courses. And, at least in my county, once a student surpasses that level, they are free to pursue subjects at the local community college, while finishing up the rest of high school with their classmates.

link
throwaway90999 4181 days ago
It doesn't require it, but it does help frame the issue as to whether high school is a "waste of time."

For example, much as you describe, I scaled back my high school senior year to less than a half day in order to make time for community college courses. If I did not partially pull myself out of high school I would not have had enough time to pursue my education.

Looking back decades later I am pleased with my choice.

link