Thanks, Karyn. I agree with you about technology, and my "rant" was more about the systemic issues, using access to the Net as an example. I think that a lack of curiosity or a willingness to experiment and improve one's teaching is more the issue.

We have two boys, and our eldest still wants to remain in the school system, even though he is bored. As for competitive sports, we have more opportunities outside the school system than inside. All activities require extra money anyway, so it makes no difference. Lucas swims competitively, but the program is not affiliated with the school.

I guess that we are lucky in that we can offer our sons an option. In a small town, with a state-owned monopoly on public education, there are no options for most people. We can't go to another school and the nearest private school (if we could afford it) is 200 KM from here.

One advantage of a small town is that we know many talented people. In addition to apprenticeship to an electrician, Lucas has options for boat-building and multimedia design from other willing tutors.