Stephanie Simon had the wisdom to interview Nancy Carlsson-Paige, who has steadfastly taught, written about, and advocated for letting children be children. She has old-fashioned belief in the joy of play and creativity, imagination and fun as intrinsic motivation for learning.

Nancy is a hero of American education and a champion of the rights of childhood. She joins our honor roll because she never trimmed her sails, never put her finger in the air to know which way the wind was blowing. She knows true North. Her internal compass is undisturbed by fads.

If only there were more people in higher education and public life with her quiet courage and unwavering integrity. If childhood survives this “dark time” of data-driven decision making, we will remember Nancy and be grateful for her persistence.