An Alternative to Affirmative Action

* To help the disadvantaged meet standards, I propose a two-prong approach, one which would, in the long run, achieve better results than affirmative action. It would prepare the disadvantaged to function and to feel at home in mainstream society, which is where the opportunities are. The two prongs are based upon what I did with my children, because I think it is fun.

Briefly, one prong would involve providing books, records/tapes/CDs and assorted arts and crafts materials for the children to use in play and for exploring potential talents. (Site: home, neighborhood garage, church room.) The music and literature would be an introduction to the mainstream culture in which they, when adults, would have to function. The second prong would involve frequent field trips to zoos, nature sites, historical sites and museums, etc.

Kids who were involved in such a program would be ready to make good grades in school, to qualify for and to feel at home in college and to feel comfortable moving into the world. Such a program would not be an insult to the disadvantaged.

JUANITA MATASSA

Santa Ana