I must respond to James Ault (“Reimagine education system,” Our Readers’ Views, Feb. 1). I doubt he has spent any time in a public school recently.
First of all, until the pandemic hit and online learning disrupted students, schools were making great strides on state tests and other advanced tests such as the SAT and AP Class tests. Many struggled to learn online and of course, the graduation rate dropped in recent years. Until 2019, graduation rates were high and were increasing.
James is wrong about what is taught. Students take tests to measure progress in “the three R’s”. In addition, they learn how our government works and they learn history. As of yet, there is little to no information given to students about systemic racism. I taught 33 years, and I know this to be true in at least Oregon and Washington schools. The private schools vary widely in quality, but they are not tested by the state, so there is really no way to have objective data about how they do in comparison to public schools.
I believe even the poorest of children deserve the chance at a good education. Public schools serve a great purpose in our society.
