Idiot Nation

Michael Moore discusses the root of educational shortcomings of the United States in "Idiot Nation". He elaborates on the lack of government support and funds, respect for educators, and ability for students to express themselves. He also touches on schools accepting funds from corporations in exchange for marketing their product.
I was worried as I began reading this article, but I quickly found myself engaged in the text as he shared his experiences with school in his youth. I think we all can remember a student in school, possibly ourselves, that "exercised their rights" and tried to pushed the limits. Some were successful and others not so much. I found myself laughing at his story as I sometimes felt the same way about the ABC song. I then began to relate on other matters.
My sister is a third grade teacher and countless times she has come home from work frustrated. She began her schooling excited to help the youth of America become productive members of society; yet there are so many hurdles she has faced since she began. There are not enough funds to do the activities that would most benefit the students, often parents have confronted her that their child's problems are her fault, and of course there is always the salary issue. I felt a connection with the things he was saying and found this piece an easy read for me.