Parents need to be more responsible for kids

Lots of talk these days about our schools and parenting, most of it unfavorable. Some say our children aren’t getting as good an education as we did, and it’s hard to argue with that, but if it’s true, where do we place the blame?

Some blame the teachers. Some say it’s the administrations, often top heavy, increasingly liberal and so concerned with political correctness that it has had a negative effect on what, and how, is taught. Still others blame unions, claiming they have made it too difficult to fire incompetent teachers. Perhaps there is some truth in all of those opinions, but a solid argument can be made that teachers are the LEAST culpable, and even stronger argument that the biggest problem is poor parenting.

How many parents take the time to talk with (not at) their kids — find out what they are thinking and who they are “hanging out” with? How many automatically blame teachers when their kids get a bad grade, or fail? How many have abandoned the responsibility of teaching moral values, turning it over to schools and/or churches? How many, particularly those in lower income brackets, are honest with their kids; instead of blaming society for their plight, say “I’m not more successful because I don’t have the education and/or qualifications for a higher paying job. Don’t let that happen to you. Pay attention in school and do the best you can.”

Perhaps it would help if parents attended school board meetings, letting them know they are paying attention, and going to parent/teacher conferences, listening to what the teachers have to say about their kids. People are busy these days, but for those who say they don’t have time to attend these meetings, perhaps they should be asked this: What is more important to you than your children? GENE LEMON Yuma