In general, I think schools are doing a less than stellar job. Children need to develop rudimentary skills to see them through their adulthood. Basic reading, writing, and mathematics are crucial for whatever they will be doing in the future, even if it is “only” running a household and raising a family.
When I see certain types of spelling and/or grammatical errors (and I am not immune to making them myself), it makes me cringe. More than that, when I hear a teacher speak with poor grammar or lack of good enunciation, it REALLY makes me cringe. There was a time when a teacher of any subject not just language arts, could not be hired without passing elocution tests. Though I applaud teacher creativity and enthusiasm, there is certainly something to be said about articulate presentation of subject matter. At least, this grumpy old lady thinks so.