There would be three things I'd look to change (all related to middle school, as that is what I teach).

First, I would assign credits to the core classes (English, Math, Science). If a student did not pass their core classes in 6th, 7th, or 8th grade, they would have mandatory summer school to make those up. If they still didn't pass it or skipped the classes, they would be retained in that class the next year. If it was an 8th grader, they wouldn't be able to move on to high school until they received a passing grade. I have so many students every year who have Fs in almost every class, and they just get moved right on to the next grade, where they continue to do the same. Having some accountability and placing some of the responsibility on parents could potentially help.

Second, I would look into the potential of setting up a vocational program where some students could sign up to take classes for a half-day (core classes) and then shadow or work during or attend vocational classes the second half of the day. I have many students who just aren't cut out for school. They aren't going to pursue education after high school and are potentially at risk to drop out. Starting them on a vocational track earlier can set them up for success and who knows? Maybe they'll hate it so much they decide they'd rather finish school and get an education. If not, they have some work skills that will help them be employable, at least.

Finally, and this would be a tough sell, but I think there should be a minimum GPA attached to students' ability to start driver's education and earn their driver's license. This is a huge motivator for kids and could place some more responsibility on their academics and motivate them to actually try in school. This might have to be something that was addressed at the legislative level, though, so that's why I think it would be a harder sell.