By Mark W. Fowler, Patriot Post - Sadly, there exists among the leadership of educators derived from progressive theory a despicable notion that children should not have to endure standardized tests; ought not be graded on the 100-point scale; ought not be penalized for turning in homework late (to the extent they do any); and should be able to retake tests. The purpose of this is to accommodate those who might have difficult home lives, or who might be stigmatized by poor grades, or something. Sadly, this is the path to mediocrity.