School Administrators Asleep on the Job

Re “A Plot to Zap the Nap,” editorial, March 21: Childhood naps are more than “neat.” They are developmentally necessary for young children. Tired 4-year-olds whine because they’re not getting what their bodies and brains need. Andre Hornsby, a Maryland county school chief, and his pals are more than “airheads.” They are dangerously ignorant of child development. Unfortunately, they are among a growing number of school administrators, principals and teachers who either know nothing about child development or blatantly disregard it for any number of frightening reasons.

Lest we be tempted to get into the usual blame game, let’s remember that dysfunctional behavior requires other people’s acquiescence. Holding people accountable is hard work, and most of us are too busy, lazy or cowardly to do it.

Marta Vago

Santa Monica