I can think this because I have actually taught in schools as bad or worse than Detroit schools. I have lived most of my life in Detroit, but am now living and teaching in rural Mexico. Schools are unheated, and kids come to school without breakfast due to extreme poverty. Their homes often lack indoor plumbing and kitchens, and have dirt floors. Yet the teachers teach and the kids learn. Yes, the system here is flawed and needs money, dedicated teachers, and more. But roof leaks and gym floors are not the real problem.