Education hasn’t failed, parents have

To the Editor:

I am tired of hearing how we have a failed education system in the United States. If we do, then the fault should be shared by students and their parents, and not rest solely with teachers.

I don’t buy the argument that “Education is for whites and not minorities.” Two plus two is always four and H2O is always water. Teachers and staff at all levels are hard-working, dedicated professionals who have given their lives to teaching others. They provide the tools and information, but it’s up to the students to listen, take notes, do homework and study for a test. It’s up to the parents to see their children go to class, pay attention, do their homework and behave.

Over the years, what constitutes a passing grade has been systematically lowered. Parents have hounded school boards and PTAs, blaming teachers for pushing their children too hard. The result: We’re falling further behind other countries, where parents and children place a higher value on education. And we’ll continue to fall behind if parents don’t wake up and realize that they must take an active role in seeing that their children reach their potential.

Another factor is that teachers can no longer discipline a disruptive student for fear of litigation. When a nun disciplined me in school, my parents didn’t threaten to sue—they supported the teachers and the school system.

Sports play a part in the decline in the way we value education. More money is spent on college sports programs and scholarships than on rewarding a student with good grades. No longer are sports the building blocks to sportsmanship and team work. Now it’s “win at all costs,” and too many colleges furnish tutors to hand-carry an athlete through a course.

It’s time for all Americans to wake up and take responsibility. It is up to each student and each parent to do his or her part to advance education for all. The education system cannot do it alone.

— Robert “Duke” Piroha, SUNY Delhi, Retired

Another reason to take care of your teeth

To the Editor:

I enjoyed Doreen Bango’s comments in The Voice (“Six good reasons for clean teeth,” April 2009). They are very important for our health care and dental care. The only thing I would add is that in order to protect your heart, it is essential to clean your teeth. Brushing and flossing your teeth and brushing your tongue can protect your heart—and your life.

— Jim Friel, SUNY Farmingdale, Retired