I largely agree that independent thinking isn't a priority, but there was TAG (which admittedly emphasized skills that all kids should've been taught), and the

I largely agree that independent thinking isn't a priority, but there was TAG (which admittedly emphasized skills that all kids should've been taught), and the occasional outstanding teacher. I do believe that critical-thinking is the single-most impactful untaught skill in public schools. It's a gateway to so much more, including an autodidactic lifestyle. It's honestly mind-boggling that logic and critical-thinking aren't a recurring theme. Still, our schools produce a lot of amazing students who go on to make hugely impactful contributions. Sure, it needs improvement. But I think the degree of dysfunction is overstated.