The conditions to learn those things exist just going through life. But I agree that schools are the one place in life where those lessons are squelched. Obey the teachers no matter how wrong they are. Don't get openly angry at any classmate, no matter what horrible thing they have said to you. If you're not reading as well as the kid next to you, you are a failure. Squelch yourself at all costs. It's awful - I hate schooling now. It is nothing more than a great dumbing down in the US. Many students seem to thrive in schools, but those who don't are often gravely harmed psychologically, emotionally, and socially.
You have such a great eye!!! And smallsteps is a great subject for photos.