As I mentioned above, most of my teachers supported me dropping out and told me of the successful types they knew like me. However I would like to stress that this kind of path isn't for everyone and having a low-enough common denominator and standardization does have utility. For most people, not finishing high school could very well mean a lack of commitment. Especially if they need external motivators as most do. However in my adult life as an autodidact and "life long learner" I don't see a lot of self-direction or commitment coming from the general population of graduates.