Update: My kid brought this topic to my attention again and in the course of our conversation she informs that her teacher abbreviates her surname to simplify it for her students. I'd be afraid of a lawsuit if I got too deep into the specifics, but her full name doesn't seem to me to need abbreviation. I guess I'm learning something new every day, even things I don't want to know.

I agree with TD above regarding the home being (hopefully) a bigger influence to students than school, but as I mentioned earlier, misuse of language can serve to widen the disparity between the kids who understand and those who don't, especially when the home isn't able to counter the misuse.

Thanks Mudcatfolk for your information, opinion, discussion, and interest. I love this place!

Peace, Mooh.