[mrustow]

So, if they just all up and quit their jobs, and let their kids starve, you might consider showing them some respect. How sweet. Are you willing to up and quit YOUR job (or have your spouse or loved ones quit THEIRS), just to satisfy some contemptuous stranger, who has already shown an utter lack of regard for people who are putting their time and effort into reforming the public schools?

I didn't think so.

[concerned about politics]

, and let their kids starve,

Yeh. Right. Gimmie a break.
They could work for private schools if they were really out to change the system.
Public schools ARE government schools. They're "aiding the ememy" for crying out loud!
They still teach socialism. It's their job.

[concerned about politics]

you might consider showing them some respect.

The U.S. school system was modeled after German schools created in the 1800's for the express purpose of producing obedient soldiers and factory workers (This is true! I've read it in many different good sources). The German system was extremely successful in achieving its goal in Germany and was therefore copied by other countries, including the U.S. The great American tycoons are big supporters of the German system in America since they want illiterate but obedient factory workers. Our schools are operated pretty much the same way today.
Obviously the brightest and most creative kids are going to have the biggest problem dealing with this restrictive environment.

I've had many people tell me they give their child Ritalin "only when they're in school" to prevent behavioral problems. It would seem in those cases that the school is the real problem.

Why do parents settle for this? I suspect one reason is that they don't know there are alternatives. Good alternatives, often inexpensive or even free.

[concerned about politics]

PS....

Obedient factory workers also help the NEA get out the socialist vote. A big plus for their political agenda.