[Wayne Luke]

Originally Posted by eglyntine

The whole education system needs to be re-evaluated and fixed. Although with everyone completely focused on the "economy" these days, educating our children in the public school system is definitely not on the top priority list for those in charge of it.

The current economic stimulus package includes $100 billion specifically earmarked for schools and education. Not only to retain jobs but to build new schools and hire more teachers.

--------------- Added 29 Jan 2009 at 13:58 ---------------

Originally Posted by kevcj

I also feel that the private school should get that parents school taxes, not the public school.

School Vouchers? Will probably never happen as long as the unions behind the schools and teachers are as strong as they are. They wield a lot of power and influence both in lobbying industries as well as marketing and advertising their views. Every teacher belongs because it allows them to get tenured. Once tenured the only way to really lose your job is to be convicted of a felony.

The real problem with the education system is that many see it as a fallback career these days. If they can't get the dream job then they can always teach. Very few people actually set out to be teachers. So we have Drama Majors teaching Math and Science Majors teaching Literature. All that matters is that you have a degree and certification. You don't need to actually be certified in the subject you're teaching.

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As an addendum to what I said above... I am not against home schooling. I literally do not have the time for home schooling. All three of my kids are teenagers and one is special needs. Its either home school or pay the bills. My wife doesn't have the patience or inclination to teach the children. What I can do is augment their general education with activities designed to stir their mind and make them ask why instead of just read out of a book behind a desk.