Everyone in town is in easy walking distance of a liquor store. Even if you don't own a car you can pass out drunk within twenty minutes for under three dollars. It is easy, quick, convenient and simple. Society values alcoholism more than education. Every dollar spent on education is repaid ten fold in higher earnings.
Education has a fantastic return on investment.
It would be possible for the government to put a few educational video games at every 7-Eleven. Make them cheap and fun. The idea is to dispurse educational oppurtunities throughout the city, instead of having education concentrated in the schools. You should be able to learn something on impulse, rather than have to plan for months or years. Education should be easy, close, quick, cheap and fun.