Public School, Private School

So, Sarah got me thinking this weekend...about public schools compared with private schools. Now, I know I don't have kids, so this is a totally different perspective, but here's my thoughts:

My siblings and I went to public schools K-12. I think we turned out pretty damn good: an engineer, a speech pathologist and a lawyer - not bad at all. My mom still teaches in public schools, and even if she wasn't my mom, I'd still think she was a damn fine teacher. I've watched her. So I KNOW that good things can come out of public schools.

Schools depend on more than just funding from local, state and federal money to be "good schools." And it's a bit of a self-fulfilling prophesy, isn't it. People who would be good parents and be active in their childrens' school don't want to send them to public schools because public schools are bad. But something that helps make schools better is parents being involved. So good parents don't get involved in public schools and the public schools stay bad.

Seriously...I know there are a lot more complex things that play into it...and I know I was raised by a teacher...but I still think education is one of the most important things there is. And it always irks me when I hear old people complain about property taxes, "I don't have kids in school, why should I pay to send kids to school?" and then they complain about kids running around like idiots committing crimes.

Yeah, this is not a really well formed thought, but just what's been running through my head the last few days.

Wow...

I have always been greatful for the opportunities that being an American affords me. These were really cemented after spending a summer in the Dominican Republic. I really do have to say that I have never been more proud to be an American than today. We're watching history. I took part in history by voting. I am still crying, and the goose bumps are permanent at this point. Si se puede!

If you haven't already done so...

...get your ass off the couch and go vote! And if you have, good for you. And if you voted Democrat, even better!!

It will be exciting to see how this all turns out. To think, I was there on "that cold January night in Iowa" sitting in the multi-purpose room at Adams Elementary with the Obama group - one of many 1st-time caucus goers.

It's been a long time coming.