The only thing we learn in the way of tolerance is just how different religions and cultures exist. We had the option to take a world religions class in high school. That was one of few classes that had its sole focus on culture and religion.

Even if my teachers were detached in primary school, I think public school is a good way for students to get adjusted and be prepared for the real world. I remember not being treated “fairly” but life doesn’t treat you fairly so in a way, it did serve to desensitise me to the nastiness that is reality.

We didn’t get a lot of “Merry Xmas”; we did Christmas stuff in school but strangely they always said “happy holidays” and “Seasons greetings” even though we would sing Christmas carols in the front lobby in the school before the start of class. Strange really.

When I moved to Toronto it felt very strange not getting Jewish holidays off and being wished “Merry Xmas”. It didn’t take me long to adapt but initially I felt maladjusted, not just awkward.

Then again, I think I got a very good primary education at my private school – especially in English. Maybe that’s the result of me trying harder at a subject I enjoyed, but excellent teachers are the other half of that equation.

I’m not against private schooling but I don’t want to pay for someone else’s kid to be given a religious education. Send your kid to public school for free or pay to educate them elsewhere.