I applaud you.
I raised three kids and they have all become wonderful, intelligent adults. I used a combination of private and home-schooling with them. It allowed me to spend a lot of time with them, to make sure they were actually learning.
I believe wholeheartedly in private schools (for the most part) and think the current state of home-schooling is wonderful. I wish it had been this organized when my kids were little. I wouldn't have hesitated.
I didn't mean to imply that I homeschool. For more than one reason, I am unable to homeschool. That may draw some derision from those who applaud it. Those parents that can do homeschooling are given my respect.
But as I said, I am involved in my son's education. And importantly, I closely monitor the worldly things that he encounters. I may appear to be too attentive. However, I only have one shot at this. I need to work very hard for his future.
I have my kids in the public school system in Houston. They are both doing very well. The only common thread for a child's successful education is parental involvement. It really doens't matter if the child is is public, private, or home school IF the parents provide love and support, and encouragement, AND participate in the programs and functions of the school itself.
I will bet a dime to a dollar that the little sociopathic "darlings" in the article are all products of parents that want nothing more from their schools than a day care from 7:30 to 3:45 or whenever. The few successful students mentioned in the post are from homes with involved, active parents. Any takers?