Students shouldn't be protected from real life

As the mother of a graduating senior I do appreciate how every year the school puts on a 'mock' accident of what could happen if our children drink and drive, and don't wear a seat belt.

From what I understand they even provide 'mock' parents and victims.

About three weeks ago a very dear friend of mine lost her son in a 'real' accident due to drinking and driving. But most importantly he would probably still be with us had he been wearing his seat belt.

That vehicle was offered to the school to use for their 'mock' accident. Think how more effective having a 'real' accident and a 'real' parent and family share their 'real' experience would have been.

Personally I think the schools made a grave mistake in passing up the oppertunity to to really make a difference and impact.

Our children don't need to be protected from 'real' life, sometimes I think it needs to be waved in their faces for their own good.

Maybe the adults were the ones afraid to face this very harsh reality. It's too bad the powers-that-be couldn't or wouldn't allow some good to come of the death of this precious young man.

LORENA KEENAN

Sandpoint