President Obama's address to the nation's school children today could be an important lesson in civics.
Obama, if he does not depart from his prepared remarks, will challenge students to set lofty goals, do their best to excel and stay in school. It's not much different than past addresses to students by President Ronald Reagan and President George H.W. Bush. It will have Obama's personal touch, of course.
One would think that parents and educators would jump at the chance for students to hear the president directly and then spend some time dissecting the speech, examining it for simple political posturing or for nuggets of wisdom. And to see if Obama keeps his promise not to interject commercials for his legislative agenda.
It's an opportunity for parents to discuss the talk with their kids and the youngsters' impression of the president — at least the office of the nation's chief executive and its responsibilities, successes and failings.
For that to happen, parents and educators must trust themselves and the students.
However, there has been a lot of negative reaction with the address deluged in partisanship and preconceived notions.
It would be folly for Obama to hawk legislative issues in this venue. Many students have some idea about what their parents think, and the scenario isn't set up for general questions and answers.
Obama cannot hope to reach disbelieving parents through convincing their children that his version is best for America.
So, we think the president will stick to his planned address. And yes, it is a prepared talk. No one should attempt extemporaneous remarks in such a setting.
Many parents will not allow their children to hear the talk. Some schools are not going to tune in. Some schools will give teachers and students an option.
This, too, is a civics lesson. It's not civil disobedience. No laws are involved. But to listen or not involves a socio-political decision. It's a topic ripe for discussion in an academic atmosphere or around the dinner table.
As much as we think this is a grand opportunity to learn and engender dialogue in the classroom, we will not chide anyone who chooses to tune out on behalf of themselves and their children.
We do encourage teachers and parents to talk about the decision — whatever it is — with students. They don't deserve to be included or excluded through decree or a hazy explanation that amounts to a pocketful of gibberish.
Use the opportunity for articulation. Information — knowledge — is power. School and family are about empowerment. Don't keep the kids in the dark.
Note: Read the president's remarks to students at www.hickoryrecord.com under Opinion/Let's Talk Politics.
Email
Facebook
Google
Twitter
Favorites
More
Advertisement