Public education in the United States is the envy of the world. This is the main reason why our country is so successful.

Our system is designed to bring together diverse socio-economic groups and all religions to study all aspects of academics, socio-emotional learning, and critical thinking. The goal is to teach children things they may not learn at home, to eventually be able to make decisions for themselves regarding their own beliefs, and to develop thoughtful citizens who can contribute to our society. .

The Supreme Court has repeatedly considered the role of parents (Wisconsin v. Yoder, Pierce v. Society of Sisters). The courts have concluded that parents have great authority in deciding how to raise and educate their children. But this right to do so does not mean that public schools have to respond to parents’ ideas about education. Parents have the right to withdraw from public education and attend private or religious schools or teach their children at home. But even all of these are regulated by the state with certain educational requirements and standards set by the state Department of Education, not the local school board.

My own children went through the 9-R system. Both graduated from Durango High School. Both attended first-level universities and graduated with honors. The only way to achieve this designation is to have a high GPA for all semesters of the four years. This means that my two children came to college fully prepared to do their college jobs well. Thanks to the DHS teachers!

Erica Max

Hesperus