Ok..First off I must admit my bias, as I am a Public School Biology Teacher. That being said, there is much I dislike about out public school system. However, I do not fully believe that the answer is for all parents to pull their children out of public school to homeschool them. It is sort of an "abandon ship" mentality. Things will not get better if all the really good parents decide to withdrawl from the system and take their "future nerds" (said with love as I am a former nerd myself) with them. It is exactly those type of parents who can initiate change and demand more from the school. Now, I understand you might be saying, "I am not going to sacrifice my child for the betterment of the system". Agreed. There is no reason to assume your child will falter or be a victim of sub-par education just because they attend a public institution. I went to a public high school. I did well at that high school. I was one of those rare individuals who was in the top 10% of their class, yet would not be singled out as a "geek". I feel that my success and ability to survive amongst the masses is a direct result of my parents encouraging me to deal with all types of people and not to avoid uncomfortable situations. I think that the "real world" is full of all factions and if the survival skill you impart to your children is to withdrawl from any uncomfortable situation you are not adequately preparing them for these types of situations. There is talk out there about something called "EQ" or emotional IQ. It is one's ability to intuit and deal successfully with others. I feel this is as important for a happy life as mental intelligence. Attending a public institution helps one hone these skills. Now, there is alot of BUTs here for me...A child will only succeed in this environment if the parents have prepared their children BEFOREHAND. It is too late to start to deal with these peer issues in high school. As one enters that arena, they must already possess the self-confidence and internal strength to withstand the situations that will arise. This might be unpleasant, but having come through it, one will emerge stronger and more able to deal with others in the future. It is also our responsibility as parents to supplement our child's education with trips to museums, parks, etc. Visit the classrooms, call the teachers, volunteer to be a "class mom"...these are things that can help not only your child but all the children. Again, I do NOT love the system. I know there are problems..I see them every day but I would rather try in my own little way to be part of the solution rather than abandon all hope.