Final answer:
Mrs. Denny should consider the diversity of student needs to provide the best educational opportunities. Inclusion, cultural sensitivity, and individual accommodations are crucial in creating an equitable educational environment. A rigid curriculum would not suit all students, hence a flexible and inclusive approach is necessary.
Step-by-step explanation:
Mrs. Denny, as the school principal wanting to provide the best educational opportunities for all students in her high school, should consider the diversity of student needs. This approach aligns with inclusive education practices which recognize that students have a wide range of backgrounds, abilities, and learning preferences. These differences must be acknowledged and accommodations made to ensure equitable access to education for all, including those with disabilities as indicated by Mills v. Board of Education 1972, as well as considering the different socioeconomic backgrounds and cultural identities as stated by Ladson-Billings (1994).
Providing best educational opportunities certainly means going beyond academic achievement and embracing a broader understanding of education that includes social skills, such as teamwork, and critical thinking, which are essential for preparing students to enter the workforce. In line with Arne Duncan's proposal during President Obama's administration, there should be an effort to recruit and retain effective teachers and to pursue educational reforms that raise academic standards while also being mindful of not disproportionately disadvantaging any group of students.
Therefore, a rigid curriculum would not address the diverse learning needs of students and could potentially entrench existing inequalities. Instead, schools should support flexible teaching methods and curricula that accommodate different learning styles and provide all students, regardless of their background or abilities, with the chance to succeed. This approach helps to support everyone's rights to be equal and empowered members of society.