Punishment not appropriate

I am writing to express my opinion regarding the Saturday detention "work program" at Lindero Canyon Middle School.

My son was recently given this punishment for a school infraction. I understand that if he didn't follow school rules, he should very well be reprimanded and made to give up four hours of his Saturday. Beginning at 8 a.m. the students are made to pick up trash, wash windows, clean school microwaves and the like.

As this is a teaching environment, in my opinion, the students should be made to perhaps read a book or current events and write a report on what they read. Perhaps write a report on something in class that inspired them, or perhaps just plain read. We're in an election year. Maybe their opinion on a current candidate or the price of oil and their thoughts as to why they are what they are.

To most kids this is punishment enough, but perhaps they could get something out this "work program" rather than do what they have been asked to do- pick up trash.

Sanford L. Stock

Agoura Hills