I know that boys tend to score higher in math on the SATs...I meant the premise that math education is inferior because of the preponderance of female teachers.
the brightest students are capable of learning more than their teachers know.
I'd say that the majority of students are capable of learning much more than they do - but they don't for a variety of reasons. Some teachers don't enforce high standards because they've bought into the whole "self-esteem" thing, and in some systems they aren't allowed to - at least initially, if the students aren't used to having to work, failure rates will be high, and some administrators don't allow that.
Some students just aren't willing to put in the effort required, regardless.
What a great argument for vouchers!
Yes, at least in places where good private schools are available. I hope I'm wrong, but I'm afraid that vouchers will do the least good for the students who need them most.
True.
But in time demand will create supply. Good teachers like you will leave the failing public system & establish new private schools. It will take time but it will happen.
I think that vouchers, long term, will be a winner.