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I think the problem started with the Federal intervention in schools - when I went to public school (50+ years ago) it wasn't like this. It was definitely run by local govt. but for that reason was much more accountable. We learned history, civics, Spelling - all the stuff they don't teach anymore.
You may be right that it's gone too far - but according to Charlotte Iserbyt the charter schools are just as dangerous as the Dept of Ed version.
I think those of us who were put through the trauma of JFK see things a little differently - not better, or more, but we remember a different life than those who have Always had cable/internet etc. We grew up with a freedom those younger have never known