Letter: Best teachers don’t coddle their students

Friday, Oct. 24, 2003 | 9:33 a.m.

Fifty years ago my best teachers were, first and foremost, subject-matter experts; they even wrote the textbooks. For sure, that would certainly make them unique today. Secondly, they nurtured me -- through challenge and discipline. They knew well that what mattered in my life at the age of 16 was inconsequential to educating me as a successful citizen.

We studied the great philosophies, Shakespeare's plays, novels, trigonometry, calculus, chemistry, business fundamentals, physics, biology -- we even took typing! We also had time for physical education, sports and a social life.

My teachers educated me and prepared me for the challenges of life. I am forever grateful to them.

And as for their deep connections to my everyday life ... my sensitivities? Well, that they left to parents, clergy and mental health professionals. Today's coddling, touchy-feely approach to education clearly isn't working.

No Child Left Behind is trying to return us to educating our children.

FRANK E. BUPP

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