What is the biggest mistake you’ve ever made about your child’s schooling?

Being too trusting, expecting that teachers were there because they loved the challenge and reward of the job, instead of being there because they can't get a job elsewhere ....or because they are power tripping over being able to abuse kids and harass parents. Actually believing that Administrators cared about what goes on under their noses...only to find out that its really only about the money and prestige and typical political BS.

Sending my kids to Harker

I had my daughter and son enrolled in private school for pre-k and kindergarten. I made a HUGE mistake putting them into a local public school. I really believed in the public school system and wanted it to work. I volunteered almost everyday in my children's class. Since I was in the classrooms all the time, I got a chance to see what went on. SCARY! There was a boy who physically abused others and yet the principal would stick up for him (because his parents were going through a rough time).

Even though the scores were "decent" (in high 800's) I should have been clued in with the low parent participation, a lot of non-English speaking families and about 30% of come from section 8 (food stamps). Well, they taught to "the lowest level" and as a result, our children didn't learn anything. The teachers spent all their time correcting the children or helping the non-English learners ready & learn phonics. (and this was a 2nd grade class!) Not to mention, about 15% of the class had emotional problems (with parents who just didn't care). Everyday a kid would have to get walked to the prinipal's office.
We have kids going back to private this year and they are thriving!

I should have stick to my strict acadamic agenda..
and not saying that let her be a kid and enjoy her childhood time.You know what...because the realistic world is very cruel and ugly.And now she is force to grow into her age group.She is still not ready and prepare herself into High Sch.