Why would it be sad? They get to socialize with their peers, which is probably the more valuable part of the education process. Learning as I come to understand, are better curiosity driven, which don't necessarily need to happen at school. All the game hacking and number crunching on unit stats probably did more to where I am today than any school class.

It's sad because anyone spending a good chunk of the week with others roughly exactly their age is completely artificial. This doesn't happen outside of traditional schooling (until university level). It's no surprise that for some, it's quite toxic.

At least if there's learning involved, then one can say it was worth it. But if it boils down to nothing other than babysitting..?

Weird, I remember being told to stop talking all the time in school. Apparently those teachers were confused about the true purpose of school!