A new study by Stanford University finds that California's high school exit exam prevents a disproportionate number of girls and minority students from graduating.
The study released Wednesday found that low-achieving girls and minorities were likely failing the exam more often than expected because of a phenomenon known as "stereotype threat" in which negative stereotypes can be self-fulfilling.
Researchers say the exam prevents as many as 22,500 students a year, who would otherwise fulfill all of their requirements, from graduating.
State Schools Superintendent Jack O'Connell said the findings deserve careful review, but people shouldn't jump to any conclusions about getting rid of it.
Copyright AP - Associated Press
