text: why is it, with spell-check so conveniently located, no one ever uses it? or better yet, why can't americans spell? what is wrong with our educational system? the people who need spell check don't care about their spelling.  lots of americans can spell.  unfortunately, it seems that most of those who can't spell like to post on yahoo answers!   i am confused about the criticisms of the school system.  first of all, charter school are also public schools.  secondly, i don't know any teachers (and i am an educator) who do not teach spelling.  i don't think the system is the problem as much as the parents.  children who read at home and who have parents who speak correct english will usually spell well.