part of the problem is "absentee" parenting. Go to any of the malls on the week-ends and see the children dropped off as though the mall is a day care center. Go to PTA meetings and see how sparse the attendance is in many of the meetings. Look at the parents who are uninvolved throughout the year in their child's education. Can't help the child with homework if Monday or Thursday Night football is on. But at year's end, they are up in arms for a day or two when the child brings home dismal results. Success in school begins with responsible parenting at home. Look at the schools which posted stellar results and you will likely find parents involved in the child's education every day. These same parents know what their children are doing when not at home. These same parents lead by living a responsible life.