It is obvious we both share a value of education as being important for the reproduction of an informed citizenry.

With this in view, might I suggest that a salient point is being avoided here?

You say, >" I have no hosility to public schools that are doing their job. As a parent, taxpayer, and former teacher, I have a lot of hostility to those who would ruin children's futures in order to protect failing schools."

To this point I agree with you. The point here should be why are there "failing schools ?" This is the issue that should be addressed and worked on. Inasmuch as schooling is mostly a local situation, what is the breakdown in the community that leads to failure?

We also agree in that I also have a lot of hostility with those who would ruin childrens futures.

Here we have to ask, how do we identify these culprits? What do they have to gain? Why would they do this?

It appears to me the problem you have identified as failing schools is a problem of failing local communities. If the local representative governments can't solve the problem, then it is only logical for the state or Federal government to step in with help to solve the problem.

Gee, I guess you are on the side of stronger Federal involvement in what I would consider a community obligation?

I was a teacher (and I still teach college classes) because I believe in education for all, not just those who are fortunate enough to attend good schools.