Kim's Blog

Obama’s Address to Students

Obama’s planned address to our school children became big news last week. In his address, Obama stressed staying in school, understanding their actions on the internet, and believing they can do anything they set their mind to.

As talk radio and others assumed the worst, Obama posted his speech online beforehand.  Conversation around indoctrination and healthcare reform pulled focus away from the “stay in school” message kids might hear in their communities or in PSA spots.

One pundit suggested if children really wanted to hear the speech, they could download it and watch it themselves. I wondered if that particular talking head understood that many children have no computer or internet at home, let alone an adult who will help them with this task. It seemed a bit out of touch to me about the vast regions- both urban and rural- that lack sufficient technology for schools and libraries.  In fact, much of the stimulus dollars allotted to education are supposed to help build this infrastructure. Corporate America has been working on this issue for years without a countrywide solution.

So I wondered a few things:
Did schools really bring their children together to listen or watch this address? Although in history, this type of speech has occurred before, I never remember hearing the president speak to me, a child. Politics were always an adult’s world and not anything I would understand, let alone inspire me to be a better student. Does anyone else remember listening to a president’s address in school?

Did Obama hit the mark with his speech? What do you think were the important take-aways?

So, speak up and let’s start a discussion!