On the other hand, one of my parents attended school with someone who was very gifted technically, but not academically.   He struggled with the academic curriculum in high school.

However, people at the school and other students decided to help him get into a polytechnic college, because they knew he excelled in certain areas.  By excelled, I mean he was a technical genius.   He was also highly thought of and liked.

Some tutored him and teachers made some accommodations.   

To make a long story short, he achieved the level needed to graduate and continue on to higher education where he won awards and scholarships because he was able to focus on areas that were his strength.  He went on to make great contributions in his field.

This took place in the 1940s in an area affected by WWII, which isn't an era noted for social reform.   However, the community involved showed they understood that things aren't black and white.