I highly suggest watching this clip. It's food for thought if nothing else--what are the flaws of our educational system, what are the consequences of those flaws, and how can we fix it?
Hey Kristen, this guy writes music for children and also political songs. This song he wrote is along those same lines. You might be interested: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8dAujuqCo7s
There, Hall objected vehemently to the emphasis on teaching traditional subjects, e.g., Latin, mathematics, science and history, in high school, arguing instead that high school should focus more on the education of adolescents than on preparing students for college.
Hall believed that humans are by nature non-reasoning and instinct driven, requiring a charismatic leader to manipulate their herd instincts for the well-being of society. He predicted that the American emphasis on individual human right and dignity would lead to a fall that he analogized to the sinking of Atlantis.
Hall coined the phrase "storm and stress" with reference to adolescence, taken from the German Sturm und Drang movement. Its three key aspects are conflict with parents, mood disruptions, and risky behavior.
True doctrine, understood, changes attitudes and behavior.
The study of the doctrines of the gospel will improve behavior quicker than a study of behavior will improve behavior. Preoccupation with unworthy behavior can lead to unworthy behavior. That is why we stress so forcefully the study of the doctrines of the gospel.
The laws of God on marriage, birth, and nurturing of little children may seem rigid, but they are very practical.