The Trib has a story about the small number of Minnesota junior high students taking Algebra 1 and 2. Seems to be that too many elementary teachers are more focused on language arts than math. Understanding this and reacting accordingly makes a lot more sense than rampaging around pointing fingers.
About the author
Harry is a ferociously good natured eccentric in Duluth Minnesota who detests traitors dressed up as Uncle Sam. You can find somewhat better edited writings of his at the Duluth Reader "contributors." page. The URL is:https://duluthreader.com/contributors/h/84/284-harry-welty