sarai, both my parents are teachers in the public school system. They taught in Guam, New Mexico, and Texas. They both have masters degrees. Mom teaches k, 1, 2, and advanced reading skills. Dad teaches science and physics at the high school level. Conversations with them over the years have given me somewhat of an insight into our public school system and how the system has changed since the 1960's.
They have taught in a variety of school districts ranging from low income to high income districts. Defenite disparities in how parents attend to their childrens education.
I'm not sure what your background is but I'm sure you have a keen interest in your childrens education. Good for you.
When I say its the parents fault I really think it is in most cases.