Thank you for bringing that matter to my attention. I must admit that, especially as a multiple Animagi, the killing of spiders for teaching purposes is unacceptable to me. I don't know what on earth got into Dumbledore! I wonder if Mad Eye Moody has been doing this behind his back...
I see Professor Brinklove has not yet added me or my aquaintance, Adrien Snape, to the roll call. With all her other responsibilities, I can understand that. But I cannot understand how Hermione can be so upset over the treatment of House Elves, and so calm about the killing of animals as a teaching tool. What's next?
*ALL* creatures are magical and deserve the same respect as wizards and witches. I hope Hogwarts doesn't descend to the level of a Muggles school!