As you have probably heard, President Obama is giving a “Back to School” speech today that will be aired live across the country. The President will speak to students directly about working hard and the benefits of staying in school. You can access the full transcript of what President Obama intends to say at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/MediaResources/PreparedSchoolRemarks/
The speech has sparked a huge controversy as some feel the President is pushing his own political agenda. School districts in Texas, Illinois, Minnesota, Missouri, Virginia and Washington have decided not to show the speech live to students. Other school districts are allowing parents to have the children “opt out” of a live showing. Oklahoma Republican state Senator Steve Russell even went as far as to say “As far as I am concerned, this is not civics education — it gives the appearance of creating a cult of personality. This is something you'd expect to see in North Korea or in Saddam Hussein's Iraq."
Now, I admit, I only read the transcript of what Obama is going to say this morning as I sat down to write this blog. That being said, the controversy it has generated has really irked me. America was founded on the principle of free flowing information. In my opinion, restricting that information causes more harm than good. Regardless of whether or not I agreed politically with the President, I think I would be honored if the President decided to come to my child’s school. I was raised to respect people in authority, even if I didn’t always agree with them, be it my parents, my teachers, or yes, even the President. To me, it seems this would be a good opportunity for parents to talk to their children about what they are learning in school. Instead, many have turned it into just another political argument with both sides slinging attacks.
So this week I would first like you to read the transcript of the speech, or if you are able, watch it live on television. My question to you this week is, “What do you think of the speech and the controversy surrounding it? Would you allow your children to watch it in a classroom setting? Why or why not?” Answers are due no later than Monday, September 14th, 2009.
To me, the presidents' speech just seems like he is trying to inform children, not necessarily push any of his ideals on them because to be honest at the end of the day, it's those kids that will either decide to stay in school or not regardless of what the president thinks they should do. I think that it is refreshing to see President Obama care so much about the future well-being of children. I don't know of any president that has came on the television and spoke directly to children all across the United States, at least not when I was in school. I think it shows that he is trying to make a difference in a child's life. To all of those states that decided not to show the broadcast, I mean what does that show to those kids? To me it would seem as if those educators didn't seem to care that all the president was trying to do was put some sort of confidence in these student's life. I also believe that those school's should have shown the broadcast out of respect for the president. By not showing it, that's just like saying that what the president has to say is of no importance. Obviously he thought it was important enough to take time out of his day to sit down and talk to student's across the U.S. so out of respect they should have shown it. What would it seriously hurt any student knowing that their president believes in what they can become and just urging them to stay in school. It's the truth, now a days, in this economy if you want to live a good and comfortable life you will need to have some sort of higher education beyond high school. If students don't see someone stepping up and believing in them to succeed, then how can we expect them to believe in theirselves?
ReplyDeleteHonestly i really have no idea why there is a controversy. The President is trying to motivate children to stay in school and care about thier work. This is one of the only speeches i have ever read that a polititical figure relates to people with finincal troubles. I really think the only reason there is controversy is because of the senator's own political views. Most of the students the president is targeting don't give a shit about politics. I think it is outragous that people are still bitter towards Obama;He is the president now so everyone one should hope that he is the best president we could ever ask for because he is the only one we have for the next 3 years(in my own opinion hopfully the next 7 yrs)The president is not feeding these children brain washing thoughts he is giving them motivation. I would defintly allow my children to watch this speech and hope they hang on every single word he says. I believe anyone with children wether they are your own or you are a teacher you would want your children to be motivated and succeed in life regardless of who they are motivated by to do so.
ReplyDeleteI think is a good speech that requires no controversy- Obama is trying to motivate children, perhaps something these children don't even receive from their parents or whomever takes care of them. I don't even think it is his responsibility to be motivating children, but he is taking charge for such a good cause. He brings up really good points, like if you don't get involved in something now you may never find your niche. He is saying that without getting an education, you are letting the country down because everyone who lives here must contribute in one way or another. Everyone deserves a good education, and if there is no motivation for that child, they won't believe they are good enough for college or whatever they decide to do. Obama is attempting to reach everyone by relating to the people. Just because parents don't go to college doesn't mean it's too late for their child. My dad has an Associate's and my mom never went to college, and I can see everyday that she wishes she had. We have never really struggled, but then again we have never been rich, but I think she wishes she had the education to back her career. She is very smart and that's why I grew up in a home where I was pushed to succeed and to go to college and here I am. I would allow my child to watch this because education is such an important part of everyday life. Obama said nothing wrong, people are just finding something to bitch about- as always. There will always be something wrong, but this isn't it.
ReplyDelete-- KRISTEN RICE (I did the one right above here- fashionnnxcore) :-) I was on a roll and forgot to put my name.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Dean. I don't really understand the controversy. I think that children should hear his speech because he makes some good points about education and being involved in school. I would allow and want my children to see his speech. I think that education is very important in our society today and they should understand the benefits.
ReplyDeleteI don't think it really matters because they're just children and I mean yes some things that I was taught as a child I still do today but mostly I have my own outlook on life rather than what someone told/taught me whether it was right or wrong.
ReplyDeleteI think the fact that some school districts aren't showing the President's speech to the students, and that some parents aren't allowing their kids to view it, is very disrespectful. Whether we like it or not this man is the leader of our country and we should show respect to him. Either way, he wasn't saying anything that needed agreeing with. All he was doing was giving the kids good sound advice about being responsible and putting forth effort towards their education...how is that controversial?? That may be the only time those kids hear that type of advice.
ReplyDeleteI think, it's a message from the president to the students, put it on in every school, every t.v., maybe even every station. I think he is trying to motivate our next generation. Although, I do think he should be doing the same for this generation. It is a good thing for him to be doing this though. The children need to hear it from someone, why not our president?
ReplyDeleteI don’t believe this was a pushed topic for any school. It was clearly optional and I feel that the children in Texas, Minnesota and so on didn’t see the speech or hear about it to understand the importance of education. I don’t understand how Sen. Steve Russell can call it a cult of personality. The facts are real, the dropout rates have hit an all time high and with the economy the way it is education is the number one option. People want to reap the benefits without working hard and it isn’t fair or accurate to reward someone who does minimal work or who sets below target goals to succeed the way they want. I feel that this speech is necessary for everyone to hear not just our children. Parents are relying on TV and games to do the parenting of children and they aren’t going to learn to be productive and responsible in their learning if it isn’t taught or shown to them. My family is an example of working from the bottom up. My father wasn’t around much when I was younger because he would put in long days of work just to go above and beyond to make sure we were all taken care of and had extra for emergencies. My siblings and I were taught to never give up and when you are tired it doesn’t matter because there is still work to be done no matter if its Tuesday or Sunday you work until it is finished.
ReplyDeleteI’m glad the President gave this speech, education is the most important thing a person can have and he wanted to stress the importance regardless if the economy is down the drain. You can lose your job but you will always have your education that you chose to partake in to make yourself a better individual.
It was optional whether or not the school districts showed it. Optional meaning if schools don't want to show it they don't have to. I don't think it's a big deal either way, either schools showed it or they didn't.
ReplyDeleteAfter reading the speech, I think that it's a great idea to show students. There are words of encouragement that some kids may need for that extra boost.I would allow my kids to watch it. I feel that it's important to do good in school and help support your community. I think it's a very well put together speech.
ReplyDeleteI don't really understand why there is a controversy because of it. I think that children do need to hear this. He is encouraging children to stay in school but I do also agree with Justin that it is the schools decision if they want to show it or not. I don't see what the big deal is though.
ReplyDeleteAfter reading the speech, what I gathered from the information that I read was positive. The only controversy that I may have found would have to be within the part where he said, "And no matter what you want to do with your life – I guarantee that you’ll need an education to do it." I know of people who have never went to college and are succeeding at whatever they put their hand to. I don't feel that everyone HAS to get a higher education outside of high school to become the best of the best. But I am a fan of at least completing k-12 grades. No doubt, being successful is hard work. It's all in how much effort you put into it. I understand that some families have a difficult time paying for even that. I personally, wouldn't mind having my children watch the event if the school allowed it. It's the school's desicion as to whether or not they want to show it to the children within the classrooms. It woudn't bother me either way.
ReplyDeleteTo me it sounds like he is encouraging Americans to be educated and to educate themselves. When you don't like someone, you will disagree with everything they say and if you really like someone, you are more inclined to agree with them. The problem is the blind hate and the blind following that each side has. Good Sense, even from a fool, is still good advice.
ReplyDelete-Nicholas Alexander
Good speech, showed empathy, gave examples of other kids that have overcome adversity. Provided encouragement, let them know it isn't wrong or weak to ask questions. Sounds like a father, a leader and someone who understands the challenges todays youth encounter. And no, I'm not a fan of his...but I am a father with two daughters that hears the same message from his kids and tries to lead them down a better path than the one I chose. I've seen success, but I want for them to see so much more. I'm glad a President has finally acknowledged our future and I hope he continues to coach them while in office.
ReplyDeleteAfter reading this speech, I am extremely angry and irritated sitting in this seat that there is any controversy over this...I am especially angry that those states would not allow a classroom viewing. Every child/teenager deserves to be told they can do anything they put their mind to, no matter WHO its coming from! These days kids need every single encouraging word they can get, and since they arent getting it from thier idiot parents they need to get it somewhere! Maybe if people would stop LETTING thier kids sit in front of the TV all damn day and be actual parents who teach thier kids and shape them into respectful human beings, Obama wouldn't have to even attempt this speech. I'm done.
ReplyDeleteIn my opinion good, sound advice from someone with goals and accomplishments such as those as President Obama is fine. Our young people need as much positive encouragement from any one that they can get it from. I think that the controversy stems from politics. When Presidents: Reagan, and Bush spoke to the young people; I didn't hear of this controversy. Where's the respect for authority? After all; He's still the President. Yes, I would allow my children to watch the speech, then answer any questions that they might have. Finally, I would not force my political views on them, because one day they'll grow up to make decisions for themselves.
ReplyDelete-Richard Johnson
I think that President Obama was not trying to force his political views on the children, he was only trying to encourage them to stay in school and motivate them to want to learn. But there will always be controversy. I think that I would want my children to listen to what he has to say, most children I think no matter who the president is would be honored to hear him speak, let alone come to their school.
ReplyDeleteI would let my children watch just about anything, I feel like contreversay and hot mess surrounding this would encourage my children to think for themselves. President Obama is a great speaker, and he always has something valid to say... I enjoyed the speech.
ReplyDelete-Heather R. Davis
Like many of my other classmates, I am a bit confused as to why there is even a controversey. While a person may not agree with the President or even like him, he should be listened to and respected. I cannot believe that he is attempting to encourage students to stay on school... what is the world coming to? With that sarcasm being said, what is the big deal about the President Obama wanting to make a change in the lives of kids... it could possibly be that his appearance changes the way a child feels about school and they continue on to be the President of the United States in the future. I just find it so disturbing that people cannot put aside their personal beliefs long enough for someone else to do a little good in the world. It's not like he was trying to sell them drugs or encourage them to rob a bank.
ReplyDeleteI do not understand where the controversy began. I think that when the President is talking about the importance of education, a huge political figure such as he, one should listen. Instead of restricting, or censoring, what our children see why not let them decide for themselves. Encourage thinking, rather. "The only valid censorship of ideas is the right of people not to listen." Not giving the child a chance is not giving them the chance. I believe Obama's speech was only trying to show encouragement for those who may receive it.
ReplyDeleteI have to agree with most of my classmates as well. I do not see the reason for a controversey over what President Obama was planning to speak to the children about. As stated before, he was simply motivating the children to do their best and realize that getting by in life is harder than you think and you can't just drop out of school and expect to land a great job.
ReplyDeleteI also agree that there will be children that hear President Obama's words but they will chose to walk their own path, but I commend the President for speaking. It is better to have said something to our "children" than for them to say no one ever told them, or warned them that things could be this hard.
To me, this was simply as stated. It was an opportunity for the "children" of the Nation to hear the President speak out on what is important, an education. There are some good fundamental characteristics about responsibility that are spoken of, why should we shun them?
The whole contreversy surrounding the President's speech on going back to school is absolutely pathetic. Why on Earth would parents be afraid of the President telling their kids that they need to stay in school? Well for the most part the only parents that are scared of showing the televised speech to their kids are republicans. They are scared because they feel that Obama is going to push some political agenda on the kids, even though they apparently did not read the script. It is saddening that people do not trust our president. He has not given us any reason not to trust him. Personally I would have allowed my child to see it and would have asked them to take notes so they could tell me what they learned from it. I feel that it is extremely important for children to know and understand why they need an education.
ReplyDeleteThe Presidents speech was amazing I would want my kids to hear it as well as any child. His speech was a boost of encouragement that each child might need to get them focused on their life and their future. The controversy around this speech is ridiculous. Parents should let their children listen to this speech because it might change future lives for the better and help students that doubt them selves. I wish i could have heard a speech like this one when I was in school maybe I would have actually done my home work or payed attention in class.
ReplyDeleteI did the last blog instead of this blog, so I'm reblogging. I have no problem with The President of The United States of America taking the time to address children in schools. I think that he is an important political figure no matter what people's views are and that children should be educated and up on current events.Let our children come to their own conclusion of what they think of his speech.I think that some children may never be exposed to a male role model that they can identify with and that his input may be crucial in making a statement of the reality of his position. Speak away, it's his strength!
ReplyDeletei would let my children hear this becausei don't think there is any controversy. i pretty much agree with what everyone else is saying in that its just a motivational speech. you wouldn't stop the D.A.R.E. dog from speaking against drugs at your school would you? or a lady who survived cancer telling her story, you wouldn't stop her from speaking. so why would you stop the president of the united states from speaking to your kids about school. he's just doing it cause parents aren't...and it really shows
ReplyDelete-Josh Hollandsworth