Wayne Adams
Barry, Alan and G.P.
Wed Jul 4 19:27:24 2001


G. P.

I am familiar with the Salina 8th grade examination you sent. It makes you think does it not? How could they expect an 8th grader to pass this test? Is this examination is representative of all 8th grade examinations of this time period? I must assume that is not too far from the norm.

Is it fair to compare this examination to our expectations for present day 8th grade students? In the late 1800’s, were all school age students required to attend school, or were they working primarily with students that have the ability and commitment to succeed?

First let me state that I am a strong supporter of Public Education. However, we are dumbing down our product. This is what the public has called for and we are doing a good job at it. We are expected to be a baby-sitting service for the working parents and the single parent, and we have a lot of single parent families today. We are suppose to teach them morals, teach them social skills, give them a work ethic, entertain them, and oh yes if we have time teach them a little subject matter, but don’t forget they have other organized activities after school, so limit their homework. Barry recognizes the necessity of parental involvement. Alan’s comments on reading are right on target too. TV and computer games are difficulty to compete against.

I am also convinced that immigration patterns, over the past 100 years, have contributed to our lack of interest in U. S. history. It is just not part of their history, except as the U. S. has interacted with their country of origin.

Recent immigrants from the Orient have reminded us of what our educational goals and commitment were prior to the 1900’s. I hope it is contagious. Some European countries and Japan still maintain this committment to education.

Well enough of that. Thanks for your energy and thoughts, in responding. This thanks goes out to Barry and Alan, as well. I hope they reads it.

Respectfully

Wayne Adams