re: Is it time to reconsider mandatory public high school education?

Let them get through high school so they are at least given the same opportunity as everyone else. But by the time they are 16, any charge involving a weapon should be tried as an adult. If they are engaging in that behavior by that age, they are almost certainly a lost cause. By 18, they need a mandatory minimum of 6 months in jail for any crimes involving theft or a weapon. Second offense is a minimum of 5 years and an automatic felony. Third offense of a violent crime involving theft or a weapon, and life should be on the table.