I don't think the cause is any one thing. Personally, I don't think the public school system is worth anything, but it's not just that, or there would be an endless stream of school shootings.

I think it's probably the schools PLUS the poor parenting PLUS the culture. The poor parenting and the culture are probably also products of the poor schooling, but few would even consider that.

People don't want the teachers armed, but I think if the teachers themselves (individually) are comfortable with the idea, why not let them? And if the schools don't want that, they can hire professional armed guards. But they wouldn't do that. Schools and sensible choices don't go together. Schools are basically in the business of making money; the safety and education of the kids aren't exactly the main issues.

Sue