School is a privilege

We have noted that quality of learning at K-12 levels and beyond has declined while the cost per student allocated has risen sharply.

Students were told they had rights. Then they became so emboldened that they dared the teacher to touch (discipline) them. They (the students) were supported by their parents.

I’m 86. When I attended school, if I was in trouble at school, I could expect to be in more trouble when I got home.

Now, the typical parental attitude is, “Don’t you dare lay a hand on my offspring.” In my opinion, that attitude is one of the primary reasons for the decline in quality education in America.

The lack of support given most teachers by parents, administration and the courts to maintain proper discipline in the classroom is, again in my opinion, the primary reason why learning in the classroom has broken down.

Attendance to all schools is a privilege and not a right. For those parents who believe conversely, you are part of the problem. A parental attitude of teacher support rather than opposition would go a long way in teaching self-reliance and overall improving the classroom atmosphere for quality instruction to take place.

Gene Sivertson

Spokane