I think Slate is cashing in on back to school time. Last week it was the Private School = bad person gem and now this.
The author of this article appeared smart to me, though, and she cites some research.
You are right. I apologize for sounding sour. I think the title Ban School Bake Sales just seemed a little too catchy.
The conclusion I found interesting was this:
"That pattern held fast across very different countries and income levels. Kids noticed what parents valued, and it mattered more than what parents said"
I don't think the majority of American parents value academic excellence. They are quite happy with average grades at average schools. It is the extracurriculars that parents really value.
I grew up in TX. The tiger parenting there has been going on so long it doesn't have a name or stand out, it is the culture. Just replace academics, orchestra and chess with football, football and football.
