Had an interesting debate this morning regarding school vouchers. A caller stated that public schools suck. He said public schools don't do a good job. He said it's too expensive and blamed teacher unions. He said a lot of things that, frankly, I'm tired of hearing . I'm afraid I reacted badly to his arguments.
Oregon public schools do not "suck". Oregon public school teachers are required to hold certification and take great pains to update their skills. Their level of pay is not extraordinary or inappropriate. A significant number of local high school graduates go on to colleges or trade schools and become excellent contributing citizens.
Private schools have their place in the scheme of things and do provide an opportunity for parents who want to see their child in a setting that teaches things public schools do not provide. Like religious dogma.
Private schools do not provide many of the things that make for a well-rounded education in some cases. Athletics have an important place and yet are not always offered in a private school setting. Transportation systems are also lacking for most private schools. Some do not offer lunch programs.
I think it is debatable that students from a private school perform better than students in a public school setting if it were possible to compare the two in a fashion that is fair to both. If we were to set up a system whereby we would cherry pick students for public schools I'm sure the overall results would be better but the fact is we have a responsibility to provide the opportunity for a good education to everyone regardless of personal capability.
If you want to make a valid argument for a private school voucher system you should be able to do it without throwing public education and everyone associated with it under the bus.
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