Letters to the Editor

To the Editor:

Carol S. Witherell repeats the same old tired excuses educationists use to justify their failure to teach children academics ("Turning Critics Into Partners," Commentary, Feb. 7, 1996). Educators whine that: Critics of public schools don't know what they are talking about; parents aren't involved and leave their children home alone; children aren't motivated. The public must simply understand that (sob) schools have to deal with children who are poor, ethnic, watch television, or breathe.

After repeating those weary excuses for why students aren't learning, Ms. Witherell turns around and admonishes critics to volunteer in schools so they can see the learning taking place. I guess that covers all the bases, except the ones that really matter--the...