Decision making — mass failure in municipal schools (Xth Board exam) Statement: A large number of municipal-school students failed the Xth Standard Board examination, causing frustration among students and parents. Which courses of action are appropriate? I. The municipal authority should immediately review the situation and initiate measures to improve it. II. The municipal authority should immediately fill teachers’ vacancies in municipal schools. III. The municipal authority should close some schools and focus on the remaining ones.

Introduction / Context:
Poor results indicate systemic issues—pedagogy, staffing, resources, or academic support. We must select actions that diagnose and remedy performance shortfalls without reducing access to education.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Many students failed the Xth Board exam.
• Teacher vacancies may impair instructional quality.
• Authorities can review performance and implement improvements.

Concept / Approach:
Combine immediate quality interventions (filling vacancies, academic support) with a management review to identify specific gaps. Avoid actions that harm equity or capacity (e.g., closing schools without cause).

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Education recovery plans typically include vacancy filling, teacher development, remedial classes, and monitoring—consistent with I and II.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• B/C/D: Each includes III, which is unwarranted.
• E: Incorrect because I and II are clearly appropriate.

Common Pitfalls:
Choosing capacity-reducing measures when the problem is quality and support.

Final Answer:
Only I and II follow