I see several issues here:
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Possibly skipping physics because the teacher is “not great.” This is not a good reason to avoid taking physics. “Not great” for the kid down the street does not mean “not great” for you. Blaming the teacher, especially before the even class begins, is not a good idea. Lots of students have teachers that they don’t like for a variety of reasons- going for extra help, getting a tutor, etc often helps. While I do acknowledge that there are all kinds of teachers out there, it is important that students learn how to handle the situation and achieve success regardless.
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Is physics required, or is it ok to substitute a different science in its place? What is the science-related major, and would taking physics help? Do the colleges that this student is applying to require physics, or do they require 3 sciences and at least 2 labs, without specifying?
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Some students do not take physics, and that might be perfectly ok…depending on the student, major, college, etc. Right now we do not have enough information.
Personally, I would want my rising senior to take physics. I agree it will be helpful down the road….even if the science-related major does not include physics (not sure what science-related actually means). I would also want my kid to learn how to navigate a less than perfect situation, if that’s what actually happens.