Unfortunately many students living in the inner cities don't have much choice BUT to attend a weak public school systems.  I have seen too many of them in cities across America.  In the same way, parish schools can't compete, if they are the only Catholic school in the area.  Parishioners have to support the weak public system and then pay extra to send their children [if they are able to do so].  Good education is a RIGHT not a PRIVELEGE.