Emphasizing Phonics, Even if the Teacher Isn't

Dear Extra Credit:

I was interested to read K. Reed's concerns ["In Search of a Private School, the Great Data Debate Continues," March 6] about her two early-reading children. My children also learned to read as part of learning to talk. We started them in public schools. One was challenged because there were other readers in her first-grade class. The other was not, initially.

That child attended one of the vaunted private schools in the D.C. area that trains "future leaders." After four years at that school, we moved him back to public school because it was our experience that all these leaders had to lead at the same rate. Individual differences and talents were not considered or nurtured. In public school, on the other hand, individual talent was recognized and nurtured, perhaps because it was rare. Also, living skills, such as learning to get along with children of many cultures, serve them well in adulthood.

Basically, as was mentioned in a previous column ["Sorry for the Bickering; Let's Pick a Good School," Feb. 28], if the children have a stimulating home environment, the choice of elementary school has little bearing on the final educational product.

H. Cheilek

Washington

I agree with your conclusion, but don't let your experience with one private school sour you on them as a group. I have seen some do a wonderful job nurturing individual differences and talents.