To the editor:

Most graduates of Mehlville and Oakville high schools are not expert in English grammar, trigonometry, calculus, biology, chemistry, physics and computer programming, which are high-paying skills.

Sadly, millions of low- and semi-skilled, but high-paying jobs have disappeared.

Millions more jobs will vanish.

Most Mehlville and Oakville graduates will earn low pay. Self-esteem is delusional. American students have the highest self-esteem in the entire world, yet Americans score at the bottom on international math and science tests. South Koreans have the lowest self-esteem, yet score at the top on international math and science tests.

Warning — higher taxes will crush Mehlville. Mehlville has wasted millions of dollars on gymnasiums, auditoriums, tennis courts and football. Almost no graduates get high pay as an athlete, coach, musician, actor or artist.

As for culture, surveys have shown that graduates in math, science, engineering and computers know and enjoy much great literature, painting, sculpture, symphonic music, opera and ballet.

Mehlville needs thousands more experts in English grammar, trigonometry, calculus, biology, chemistry, physics and computer programming to create and attract high-paying jobs — or Mehlville could become a slum.