Very true. Unfortunately, there is neither the preparatory teaching in lower grades nor the political will to enforce the standards that would make that possible again. But that's what I'm working towards for the future (dream a little dream...).
Now, on topic here...I think closing the schools is a hysterical move...
The county that had 5 deaths initially (montgomery?) never closed their schools...
In the face of terrorism, we can't freeze in panic - we lived 9/11 close up and personal - I do understand the fear people have, really. The terrorist can't win, it's as simple as that.