The whole idea of basing education on age is ridiculous to begin with. Kids should be able to advance once they demonstrate they have the knowledge to advance.

The whole idea of basing education on age is ridiculous to begin with. Kids should be able to advance once they demonstrate they have the knowledge to advance. Each level should have an optional test that allows one to advance to the next level, and that test should be available whenever the pupil wants to take it. Combine their performance on the test with observations from teachers of class performance and move the pupil up accordingly. If this results in some precocious seven year-old graduating, more power to her. Being 16 doesn't mean you have a 10th grade level of knowledge any more than being 40 means you are responsible. Everyone is different. The same problems can be found in undergrad education. Degrees are earned by putting in four years. Why are all degrees four years long? Do all fields have exactly four years worth of knowledge to impart? Degrees should be based on demonstrable knowledge of the subject, however long (or short) that takes.