Classroom Lessons 3/4

A few weeks later, the teacher proposed a third model.

“We’re going to try a fairer system. Merit will count, but so will solidarity.” The students looked at each other, intrigued.

“Your grades,” he explained, “will depend half on your personal effort and half on the class average. You’re all connected, just like in real life.”
On the first test, everyone worked together, helping each other, discussing, and reviewing as a group. Marie explained, Lucas persevered, and Tom finally listened.
The average rose to 14.
On the second test, some students slacked off, and the average dropped to 10.
But instead of complaining, the class reacted.
They organized themselves, supported each other, and bonded.
Little by little, everyone found their place.
By the third test, a balance had been established.

Marie was still shining, Lucas was climbing the ranks, and Tom was rediscovering his enthusiasm for hard work.
Together, they reached a level none of them could have achieved alone.
The teacher smiled.

"Merit elevates, solidarity sustains. One without the other leads to injustice or stagnation. Together, they create a vibrant society."

Moral.
When merit is combined with solidarity, effort becomes a shared strength.
Justice is not about giving everything to everyone, nor reserving everything for the best, but about helping each individual reach their full potential.

Note.
What holds true for a class also holds true for a nation.
Look at the Nordic countries, where excellence is cultivated without forgetting the importance of helping others.