Everything within the school, nothing outside the school

It's hard to see how today's parents can even raise responsible, self-governing young people - because the schools get you when you're 5 and don't let go until you're 18.

This latest idea is one of these that appears outrageous at first, less so upon examination, then even more so than before upon further scrutiny.

In Kentucky, right-wing State Rep. Adam Koenig (R-Erlanger) has introduced a bill that would make parents pay a fine if they don't show up for school conferences.

I think a similar idea may have been activated in one or two other states, but the concept is far more precarious than it appears. Where does surrendering every aspect of life to our often fascist schools stop?

As much as I'd like every parent to take an interest in their child's education, I think it crosses the line to fine every parent who doesn't want to hear the principal groan every time their child wears the wrong color of socks to school.

I just got done telling you about how Kentucky Republicans rejected a bill against cyberstalking, apparently under the guise of "smaller government." Yet they support fining people for not showing up for school conferences?

What's next? If this trend continues, it won't be long before parents are penalized just for criticizing school officials even away from school. Already it seems like it takes an act of Congress just to sue a school, and schools aren't shy about defending their so-called "right" to release students' academic records (which violates federal law). Where does this oppression end?

(Source: http://www.kypost.com/news/local/story/Bill-Would-Fine-Parents/5vH5buAAM0aOtKZnUswZ7Q.cspx)