As the debate between George W. Bush and Al Gore flashed across the screen in millions of American homes last week, there must have been a few parents who were exasperated. Politicians seem to think instantly about schools and teachers when addressing education. But the key element in the process is parenting.
Parents are the most important and constant influence on a child's education.
And while politicians talk about funding and call for the punishment of schools and teachers that don't meet some unstated standards, everyone can agree that parents need help. I hesitate to propose the Internet as an all-encompassing solution because I know the Web has so many flaws. So far, the Internet is not for everybody. I would hate to see the Internet somehow diminish the importance of books and other media. The computer is far from being the best medium for children who we know respond best to human touch, human emotions and the encouragement of a parent.