Chicago, What the...?

Chicago Public School students who want to graduate will have to show proof that they have a plan after high school—such as providing an offer letter for a job or acceptance into college or military service, under a plan expected to be approved next month.

The initiative, pitched by former U.S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan and carried by Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel, is targeted at encouraging students to plan for life after high school.

  WSJ

It couldn't possibly have the effect of making kids drop out of school altogether in the alternative, could it?

“The goal here is to no longer have 12th grade be the end of our responsibility,” Mr. Emanuel said in an interview. “The economy and business today require a minimum of two years post-high school.”

Surely a more rational approach would be to explore ways to improve "the economy and business" to former levels where a high school diploma was worth something  would it not?

Exemptions would be available for undocumented students and those with life challenges, such as criminal records.

Now I'm just confused.

Are you a senior and still unable to provide proof of a job or acceptance to college or the military? Hey, why not commit a crime and get an exemption?

Are you an undocumented student?  Ha.  Trick question.  As soon as that comes out, you're going to be deported under new federal laws.

The Chicago Board of Education will consider the proposal next month. Mr. Emanuel assured that the board, which he appoints, would pass the measure.

Old style Chicago politics. But hey, why bother with a Board of your personal appointees? Just sign an edict, Rahm.

Mr. Emanuel said the plan would pass legal muster and brushed aside a question on what would happen to those students who don’t have a plan. He said Chicago students have shown that they will adhere to graduation requirements.

Or what? Be shot?

...but hey, do what you want...you will anyway.