[DoughtyOne]

I probably shouldn't say this, because it's not exactly justifiable. But there are times when I honestly think it would be a good idea to board up the doors of our complete education system for about 24 months. Then I'd start a private enterprise education system that was directly answerable to parents every step of the way. I'd do away with the tenure system and demand certain actions of the university professors if they were to expect one dime of public funds to pay their salaries. Socialists needn't apply.

The universities would be run by a rotating staff and a way would be devised to make sure socialists never return to power. Community leaders, church leaders and students would run the show. And professors would be a very small part of the adminstrative staff.

[NoControllingLegalAuthority]

I probably shouldn't say this, because it's not exactly justifiable. But there are times when I honestly think it would be a good idea to board up the doors of our complete education system for about 24 months.

Don't be bashful. You are right. What we have is an indoctrination system not an education system.

Socialists control public education. Parents can and DO teach their children the fundamentals far better than schools. Look at the results of home schooling.

American public education is counterproductive and is turning out functional illiterates who will vote socialist (Democrat) because they don't know the truth.

[logos]

If I were Education Potentate (since your sensible suggestions will never be implemented, more's the pity) I would require that every professor - every professor - leave the classroom at the end of each five-year period of teaching, and work at a job in his/her discipline for a minimum of two years before returning to the classroom. That might not eliminate entirely the "ivory tower" syndrome, but I suspect it would tarnish it up a bit.

I do like your suggestions; however, common sense has no place in academia. :-/