Good Students Need Secure Households

To the Editor:

Kudos to William A. Collins (“Let’s Pretend To Improve Education,” July 7, 2005) for breaking through the corporate-politico-media mantra of blaming the schools for economic problems. Mr Collins’ solution bears repeating:

“Put all pupils on an equal footing long before they ever set foot in a classroom. Its elements involve such heretical notions as a universal living wage, prenatal care, postnatal care, health insurance, decent housing, adequate food, day care, preschool, public transportation, and other common aspects of civilized life.”

Amen. It is both refreshing and revolutionary to read such a proposal. The corporate-politico-media complex shouts that what the nation’s school children need is algebra. What they really need is to grow up in a household whose breadwinners are provided with a living wage.

I am a longtime teacher and the co-author, with Kathy Emery, of Why Is Corporate America Bashing Our Public Schools?

Susan Ohanian

2299 Ethan Allen Highway

Charlotte, Vt                                                                       July 10, 2005