Hurry up and get started before Labor Day. (Letters to the Editor).

Have we finally lost our last bit of common sense? Why, why, why has it become necessary to break a tried-and-true tradition of going back to school after Labor Day? We now leave for college as early as the middle of August. Some public schools begin classes late in August. Many years ago a very wise person said that when seeking the answer to a situation, "follow the money." Those who suggest that more rime in school is important whether it is a longer school day, a longer school year, or a longer summer are perpetuating a hoax. While those who run these programs boast of improved scores, statistics indicate that if, in fact, there is improvement, for the majority of students it is insignificant. Most young people benefit far more from summer jobs, community recreation programs, and summer camp. These experiences are far more valuable and longer lasting than any attempt at educational manipulation. For some, enrichment and/or tutoring can be beneficial when coupled with an alternative summer program. Many pa rents and children tell us that their eight- to ten-week summer experience is far more valuable than the entire year in school. And how about the summer businesses that lose valuable employees before a critical Labor Day weekend? Furthermore, many families plan vacations at the end of the summer. Why are we going so fast, and where are we going? Football players are being worked to "death" during the dog days of summer to prepare for an August game. Why? Legislators are influenced by political lobbyists, and it is obvious who they represent. When are decision makers going to ask those who know rather than give in to political pressure?

Harold Zeitz

Willow Grove Summer Day Camp, Inc.

Warwick, Pennsylvania