As most of you already know, President Obama plans to address students in schools across America next Tuesday, September 8. Naturally, there is plenty of controversy surrounding this move, but personally, I like the idea.
As a youth speaker, I meet with tens of thousands of teenagers each year and I can tell you what most students are thinking about politics, government, and their role in society.
It doesn’t apply to them. Why should they care? Their vote doesn’t matter. The list goes on and on.
When was the last time a President specifically addressed students? As far as I know…never. Despite what your political views of Obama may be, I think we’d all agree that part of sending students is to school is for education but part of it is preparing them to become contributing citizens to society.
He’s not going on TV asking for teenagers to vote for him in another three years for re-election. He’s not trying to sway them to a particular political persuasion. He’s trying to help students connect with the bigger picture of being involved in this country.
Truth be told, I think the parents are more upset by this than students are. This generation of students is passionate and they’re looking for something to rally behind. A student’s involvement in their country, in their community, and in their school is one of the best things that could come from this.
I would challenge students and parents to do the same thing. Have an open mind. Allow this moment to encourage thought, debate, discussion, and healthy conversation. None of these things will happen if either parents or students approach it with their mind made up.
Oh and in case you think I’m some Obama-maniac…I actually voted for the other guy. But I still think having the President speak to our students is a good thing.
What do you think about President Obama speaking to schools/students?
