I do understand your point of view and as we have all witnessed many politicians actively attempt to skirt family value issues, etc. because their focus is on foreign policy, economics, defense...However, to counter a country without a moral imperative will simply flounder. Many Americans born in the 1940-50's no longer recognize their own country. Baseball fans would say as batters we have stepped out of the batters box causing our averages to drop.

Core values, our beleif systems determine whether our elected officials utilize their power properly (Hitler v Lincoln). so too many this is about politics.

My friend buggyone believes sex education is essential and should be taught in schools. Yet statistics to date indicate that teen pregnancy and single mom's are at an all time high. Worse yet STD's among teens is also. so that begs the question How effective are the school programs? And if they are not why are they failing?

Katzpajamas is so on point. If only schools would go back to teaching students how to think, how do make logical choices. for example do you know how long ago kids no longer had to diagram a sentence . It has gotten to a point that jouirnalist majors need a remedial course before they can enter college. Listen to the news casters and you will hear that say Its "so fun"Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

Schools should also get up on the two hind quarters and explain to parents tha education is a priviledge to be earned year in and year out. and if their child does not want to learn then s/he neeeds to experience he consequences. When my kids came home and complained about a teacher I listened careful to make sure it wasn't more than just a personality clash. Upon which I explained that it was my childs responsibility to find a way to work with that teacher,,because the rerality was that teacher had sway over that class. By accomplishing a truce of sorts would bode well in future years
I'm certain many reading this post are nodding their heads in agreement

But schools cannot do that along and now we are back to politicians

Most of us learned that life is not fair but many us of us had parents realisitic enough to simply say "that's life" make the wisest choices you can then hang on for the ride. And has I recollect DDoug started a thread with "Tell Them" and that is good advice.