Problem parenting

Regarding the Learning page article "A Nation Still at Risk," April 26: We are "a nation at risk" not because of our system of education, but because of the decline in the quality of parenting in our country. Good parents have never been better, but bad parents have never been worse.

We cannot expect schools to undo what drug abuse and the rejection of traditional morals and values have caused parents to do to their children. Nothing will improve until parents provide a nurturing environment for their children in which they convey the values of respect, self-discipline, and responsibility. Only then will children come to school ready to learn. Barbara Zagar, Clinton, N.Y.

Letters are welcome. Only a selection can be published, subject to condensation, and none acknowledged. Please fax letters to (617) 450-2317 or address them to "Readers Write," One Norway St., Boston, MA 02115.