One more thing. LOL.
There are a lot of teachers who really do want to teach but are so stifled. They can't stand it themselves. There are some who are being encouraged to do it anyway, by parents and communities. At least, around here. It is a tough battle, though, and very tiresome.
I appreciate your responses:)
Many teachers around here(Northern PA)do want what's best
for the kids. The biggest problem comes in getting rid of
tenured mediocrities. The drop-off in our music program
here demonstrates this. The elementary teacher is a GREAT
teacher and loves kids. The middle/high school teacher also
loves kids, but is a mediocre teacher with little ability
to control a classroom.
We do have an option here, besides homeschooling. There are
two schools just across the border, in NY, that have
excellent music programs and superior vocational education
programs. We are in the process of investigating them right
now for our ten year old.