Unfortunately, the level of education needed to do real scientific (or mathematical) research is such that most people who attain that level do not want to teach basic concepts to school children, high school included. It's not just a matter of pay: I could manage with a high school teacher's salary, but I would be bored to tears if I had to teach introductory physics and calculus every year. As a result, many science and math instructors teach poorly, give incorrect information, and/or have no enthusiasm for their subject.

I had not thought about it, but you certainly make a good point. The lackluster quality of scientific and mathematic instruction could certainly leave students with the impression that the field requires as little creativity as their course exercises.