Real-world education

Mr. Ophardt is correct when he says student welfare should be paramount in a community (“Key value: Keeping all students in school,” June 25). I propose that children be taught as other mammals are taught to prepare for adulthood. If they can perform all domestic functions of an adult by age 12, such as cooking, basic electrical skills, balancing a checkbook and child care, they can go on to specialization in a field of their choosing or ability, such as welding, nursing, plumbing, gourmet cooking, upholstery and car repair, etc. in the next six years.

This would not be restricted by any future post-high school education and would be mandatory. Thus, when a child gets a diploma he would also be able to make a living.

I believe, as an older experienced pediatrician, that having such skills would reduce crime and drug use. When a person has pride in a job, the reason to stray is reduced. Industry could take a part and professional child care and nursing homes could take a part. Children would be prohibited from full-time work but part-time work would assist in developing skills for later full time work.

Eugenia Z. McGarry

Spokane