why have school at all?

[http://dummy.us.eu.org/robert (robert)]

In the wake of the shootings in Littleton, Colorado, it's surprising that
no one has questioned the assumption that the institution that we call
"school" is really necessary.  Going to a place where many young people
are verbally and physically threatened, it's no wonder that there is
reluctance to attend this institution at all.  These young people go to
school because they will be punished otherwise, but not because they wish
to be there.  Compulsory education may have finally worn out its welcome.
With the recent incidents of violence in schools, the alternative of
opting-out of school through homeschooling or apprenticeships may have
become more attractive to both parents and students.

---
robert