I used to belong to the former camp. I am neither. I like the Sudbury Model. I don't see it as a question of belief or disbelief. There is a difference between freedom of thought or belief, and freedom in one's thoughts or beliefs.
Freedom of thought is great, but freedom in thought is something different.
This involves the flexibility of mind to question the validity of one's own ideas and not stick to a belief and defend it no matter what evidence may contradict it. It's purpose is precisely to break down a system or paradigm. However, if they are unwilling to change even in the face of solid evidence, not much can be done. The symptoms or outcomes of public schooling are not the causes, however. I think Bruce and others have realized this and decided to give up trying to fix what cannot be fixed without throwing the whole foundation of it out completely.