I'm not going to get into a p!ssing contest over this with you. You obviously have some issues about teachers. Your statements about benefits and work load are uninformed and off the mark. I'm not sure how one goes on autopilot to read the equivilant of a novel a night (homework). Great range of independence? Ever hear of Regents or Advanced Placement courses? As far as College professors having more influence, well, as you said, you lack a degree so what are you basing this opinion on? Besides, those college professors were High School Students at one time. I guess the professors "cant do" either, becasue they "teach"