Friday, September 4, 2009

CMS: All schools showing Obama speech

With Obama's speech to schoolchildren stirring up a political fury among adults, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools announced today that Superintendent Peter Gorman and other top officials will visit schools to watch the historic webcast.

Click here to see the news release.

Some who oppose the speech have been buzzing over whether the district's official "encouragement" for schools to participate means whole schools can opt out.

The answer is no: All schools will show the speech live, but parents who object can contact their child's school and another "instructional opportunity" will be provided.

School board member Larry Gauvreau responded to the announcement by e-mailing his own proposed alternative: "I call on students, staff and Mecklenburg citizens to reject the Obama administration's pandering and any attempt by CMS to legitimize the Sept 8th event. Instead, teachers and students should consider reading a good book during that time period."

- Ann Doss Helms

273 comments:

1 – 200 of 273   Newer›   Newest»
lkmnews said...

Good! I hope it spurs active discussions - with a minimum of jingoism - both at school and at home.

Anonymous said...

I really don't see what the big deal is other than a president taking time to talk to students and encourage them to study hard. Do the Wing-nuts have to make everything about politics? I'm thinking anything the man does is going to be met with opposition, distortions and lies no matter what it is.

Anonymous said...

I do not remember this kind of outrage when Vice President George Bush made his speech to school children wishing them a good year.

President Chaney made sure that the speech was about education and making sure student study, make good grades and how important their education is to life.

So President Obama wants to make a the same kind of speech and people are freaking out that there will e a secrete message in the speech.

Corrupter said...

Absolutely astounding that a school board member would oppose the President of the United States speaking to school children.

It shows you just how venial the deep-seated resentment many Caucasian American feel about the election of this President. They can pretend that it is other things that are driving their rejection, but when pressed on the logic of their position it just doesn't hold water.
They begin to use euphemisms like "socialist", and "oligarchy". When in fact, they have no concrete facts to base these labels or positions.
They are using their opposition to "policy" as an excuse to vent their frustration over Obama's election.

Anonymous said...

Are people really concerned about what President Obama might say to their children? He will tell them to study hard and have a great year.

Those not allowing their children to listen to the president are simply perpetuating what has become so wrong in this country - if I don't agree with you, I'm simply not going to listen or respect you.

I disagreed with almost everything that Bush ever did, but if he had addressed my child in a manner which encouraged them to do their best in school, I would approve and applaud his message.

Anonymous said...

He needs to leave the children alone and work on getting people back to work so they can be productive citizens. He is nothing but an actor always having to be in the certer of attraction.
MORE SOICALISM !

jeff said...

Where are the democrats? The only problem is Obama choses czars(Van Jones)an ADMITTED COMMUNIST, yes that is what he said he is, to advise the president! He (Van Jones) signed that he believes our own government is resposible for 9,11,that is a huge problem that Obama chooses him!! He shoved the cap and trade through (1300 pages) that no congressman read, then he immediately pushed the health bill at the same speed. Now thats the reason people are showing up at these town halls! Now he wants to pray on the kids. If he pushes his political beliefs on them ,then real mayhem will happen on this health bill. SOLVE THE REAL PROBLEMS WITH THE HEALTH BILL, NOT 4 1000 PAGE BILLS THAT NOT MANY CONGRESSMAN AND THE AMERICAN PEOPLE HAVE READ.

Anonymous said...

My child is already motivated to get a good education and spends hours after school doing homework. Why should he have to waste 15 minutes or more of precious learning time to listen to a pep rally for the unmotivated kids (parents fault)? If he opts out he will be given "an alternative assignment". Why should he be penalized for not seeing it? He should be allowed to work on his homework.

Anonymous said...

What if this is not a one-time event? This is a precedent I am VERY uncomfortable with; no matter which political party occupies the white house. Obama should not circumvent parents to speak directly to our impressionable children.

Anonymous said...

If you folks would get your head out of the sand and read something you would see that this speech is not designed to tell kids to study hard but rather encourage them to serve the president. This is no different than how the Hitler Youth started.

Anonymous said...

In Cabarrus County we've been told that parents are not allowed to be in the classroom for the speech. This is highly suspect to me. If the speech is so innocent as they claim, why can't the parents be there to hear it as well. My child will NOT be going to school on Tuesday, or I may just check him out early. Absolutely ridiculous!

Anonymous said...

I think having President Obama speak to the school children about the importance of education is a wonderful thing. How could any reasonable parent object? This bitter group of people who are still seething over the election of our country's first black president needs to get over it. President Obama is not trying to raise their children but these mean-spirited parents are setting a poor example of how to deal with any person with whom you may disagree; cover your ears and run for cover. It's no wonder Simple Sarah excites them. These ignorant parents are doing nothing but planting seeds for the next generation of racists.

Anonymous said...

wow. some of you are crazy. it's the PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. and he would like to spend 15 minutes talking to child then fine. why is this a deal to anyone? And if you do not want your child to be part of it, they do not have to.

Anonymous said...

I am saddened and ashamed at the reaction this news event is receving across the country. Stay in school? Study Hard? My God, how dare that man suggest these things to my kids.

Anonymous said...

For all you nuts out there. Reagan actually discussed conservatism and faith based approaches at his annual school speech.

For all you scared sheep, it's your lack of education that should be the frightening component in all this.
From death panels to teabaggers to birthers, all the GOP are loons that are out of the asylum.
People like that are a great shame to our country.

Anonymous said...

Part of the problem is that this president doesn't always do what he promised, and has proven himself to be a manipulator.
The other part is that the "lesson plan" was summarily handed down by the Dept of Education so that the teachers would conduct discussions in the "correct way". How patronizing and demeaning! What kind of discussion are they afraid will take place?

Anonymous said...

Why does race get mentioned???? I'm sick of hearing anyone who opposes Obama called a racist.

Anonymous said...

PS: How is this speech "historic"?
Because it's Obama?

Anonymous said...

Remember the 3 R's -- reading, writing and arithmetic? Now it's reading, writing and radicals. Hey Messiah, unemployment is 9.7%. Get out of our kids' classroom and try to do your job. Better yet, go back on vacation and stay there!!

Anonymous said...

Angry at the President, Angry about Healthcare, Angry about Your Carolina Panthers Performance, Angry at the driver in front of you on the way to work, And now Angry at me for posting this comment. No wonder the sales of psychotropic drugs are up.

Anonymous said...

This is good. I don't see the problem b/c he is the President. I would expect this to be shown regardless of political party. In recent years it seems we have created political drama out of non events.

Anonymous said...

I wish the renecks would take their kids out of school everyday. They are indoctrinate my kids

Anonymous said...

We don't want the loonies taking over.

Anonymous said...

Larry Gavreau and his ilk would be cheerleading if a Republican President was giving a speech.
As it is the content is solely about staying in school and working hard. I don't see this as being "indoctrination".

The guides that were stupidly put by the DOE telling kids to write to the President on how to help him have been rescinded.

I don't see the problem here.

Anonymous said...

The nerve of this President to follow in the steps of Bush and Reagan by addressing students in a speech. All this talk about staying in school, working hard and being the best you can be. This socialistic talk has to end!!

Anonymous said...

Too much fear - too much hate. The President wants to deliver a positive message about education and some see a exercise in mind control. Sad.

Anonymous said...

I like how 8 months into his Presidency, people still like to pull the race card every time someone disagrees with Obama's POLITICS. It must be nice having the race card to pull every single time you are confused about something. Why wouldn't this person like "free healthcare"? Must be a racist! This person doesn't think Obama should bail out all these big companies with tax payer money? RACIST!

No wonder our country is such a shit hole nowadays. Everybody has to get offended by something. Just pathetic.

Anonymous said...

Teachers will be encouraged to show the President's address where they
deem the content relevant. Instructional materials should be reviewed
carefully. We will work with our parents to honor their particular
request as much as possible. (York County District #3)

Anonymous said...

No, Reagan was an actor. Obama is a Harvard-educated public servant. Most likely, this is more than I can say about the people who won't let their children watch him. Also, these claims about socialism and communism aren't really valid. I don't think that that the opponents here fully understand the complexities of either socialism or capitalism. Why are you charlatans even attempting to discuss it. I almost feel embarrassed when I read some of this stuff. Its obvious you don't have the education to intelligently discuss this stuff... you're better off not trying...

Anonymous said...

I believe this is a great opportunity to teach our kids about the importance of respecting our leaders, whether we agree with them or not. Parents can do their homework and follow up on the Presidents' words with some good discussion around the dinner table.

Anonymous said...

Is this correct?  That its "encouraged" but not required that CMS schools show Obama's address to all students?

yes (Ann Clark, Superintendent, CMS)

From: DEJ57@aol.com [mailto:DEJ57@aol.com]
Sent: Thursday, September 03, 2009 1:17 PM
To: superintendent; Ann B. Clark
Subject: Is this correct? That its "encouraged" but not required that CMS schools show Obama's address to all students?



"In Charlotte, Associate Superintendent Ann Clark e-mailed CMS principals this week, encouraging them to make sure all students can watch the speech. She forwarded Department of Education suggested activities."

Anonymous said...

All UCPS teachers follow a North Carolina Standard Course of Study. If a teacher feels that the United States President’s National Address to Students fits the curriculum being taught in a particular grade level or course, the teacher might choose to have student’s view the address and might use some of the suggested classroom activities provided by the US Secretary of Education, Arne Duncan.
________________________________________
From: DEJ57@aol.com [DEJ57@aol.com]
Sent: Wednesday, September 02, 2009 10:11 PM
To: luan ingram
Subject: Obama's address to schools

Correct. Decisions made class by class by the teacher.
Luan Ingram
Chief Communications Officer
400 North Church Street
Monroe, NC 28112

Anonymous said...

Cabarrus County Schools is not requiring students to listen to the president's address; however, some teachers may choose to include the speech in their classroom activities for the day. CCS schools or teachers planning to air the speech must provide parents/guardians advance notification to allow their students the opportunity to opt out of the event. Schools will provide an alternative learning activity for any students whose parents have requested that they not view the speech.

Barry Shepherd, Cabarrus County Schools

Anonymous said...

Please think rationally and logically. The President will ask you kids to study hard and stay in school. Michelle Malkin and Ben Mark Styne tell you this is a bad thing and you believe it. Where is the critical thinking?

Anonymous said...

1). The speech will not get into any social issues.
2). It will be published on Monday - read it if you wish.
3). Parents can not attend because of safety and disruption (not because of their voice, but because they turn a 15 minute pep talk into an hour long logistics issue).
4). All of this debate will encourage Obama to rightfully inject that we need to listen to each other, respect each other and be open to other's opinions. Another good message.

Anonymous said...

CMS is encouraging, not requiring, schools to participate. U. S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan stated, “The President will challenge students to work hard, set educational goals, and take responsibility for their learning. He will also call for a shared responsibility and commitment on the part of students, parents, and educators to ensure that every child in every school receives the best education possible so they can compete in the global economy for good jobs and live rewarding and productive lives as American citizens. We encourage you to use this historic moment to help your students get focused and begin the school year strong.” No President has ever gone to these lengths to reach out to our children. As Principal, I can use every bit of assistance possible in reinforcing academic and social responsibility. It sounds like a very strong and encouraging message. I am working with my Technology Specialist with regards to broadcasting capabilities. I can think of no examples of any government official reaching out to our children. In regards to pre-approval or preview, I am certain that the President of the United States of America will have a very appropriate and cogent speech.

Harrison A. Peters
Principal
Ardrey Kell High School

Anonymous said...

Please think rationally and logically. The President will ask your kids to study hard and stay in school. Michelle Malkin and Mark Styne tell you this is a bad thing and you believe it. Where is the critical thinking? (sorry for the re-post,editing to correct errors)

Anonymous said...

this is how hitler's youth got started.

my kids will not be there that day

Anonymous said...

if he can't win the kids over with a smooth speech, he'll likely try to lure them to do what he wants with candy.

we as parents and teachers in our school need to be teaching the kids, not some ego maniac.

Anonymous said...

he's a pot smoker and a smoker

i don't want him talking to my kids, he's a bad role model

Anonymous said...

I am a registered Republican. My son will attend school that day and hear the President tell him how important school is. He knows, but I am grateful that for the first time since Bush 1 - the President is making the effort to reach out. For those that say they will not send their child to school that day, perhaps you should wait and read the speech on Monday and then make such a decision. To make such a decision now is simply a reflex reaction to a President you do not like or respect.

Anonymous said...

Anonymous said...
this is how hitler's youth got started.

my kids will not be there that day

Not true. Nazi youth groups were not at all related to the government and were started before Hitler even got into power.

Read some history - think for yourself.

Anonymous said...

Thank God President Obama is speaking to our children! These bastard republicans can go cook themselves!

Anonymous said...

Are people really upset that a President of the United States is giving a speech to students? Honestly...are you? I am not saying "this" President, I am saying "a" president. Bush did this, Reagan did this. Is it now completely wrong for a President to do this?

Anonymous said...

the controversy has nothing to do with the President giving a speech to kids, and everything to do with him enlisting them in his policy agenda.

Something this controversy has forced them to revise, as it was the original intent to make the Children write to themselves on ways to Help the President and more.

This is not in any sense "the same" as a POTUS giving a speech to School Children, in facts its a lame talking point.

Anonymous said...

Most are missing the point. The message doesn't matter. No politician or government official should have a megaphone through our local schools to our kids. Very bad precedent.

CMS doesn't even allow politicians or government officials on the graduation stage. Neither should they be allow to address during the school day and through the educational system. CMS seems to be the only system in the area *requiring* kids to watch unless they opt out.

This is not about message, politics or party, its about this address being bad government. We don't need government reaching out for our kids any more than it already does....

Anonymous said...

Wow - this is ridiculous. The President of the United States of America wants to address the youngest citizens - who usually get ignored, and everyone is losing their minds. When I was a child, my parents encouraged me to watch the President speak - no matter who was in office, even if they didn't agree with his politics. It was called "learning." In school, we watched "Channel 1" every morning, for 15 minutes, where people like Anderson Cooper and Lisa Ling got their start, so that we could watch news stories about President Clinton getting Middle East peace accords signed, and Mississippi River floods. I participated in mock elections in 1992 and 1996. I watched the Kids Pick on Nick, and actually had an opinion in 1988 as well. Yet, people are so scared that their children have brains, that they want to block them from watching the leader of the free world, the person, who no matter what your political opinions is the leader of this country. As a parent, you are entitled to raise your child as you wish, but if I had chosen to take my child out of school to avoid a speech by President Bush, what would your reaction have been. If it would have been to ridicule me, then perhaps, you need to rethink your actions coming from the other direction.

D said...

I thought this sort of thinking went out with the Cold War. The idea that you might become 'infected' by even listening to a Communist. The Right is trying its best to brand President Obama as a Socialist and therefore an infected carrier of dangerous ideas.

For those of you playing the 'parenting' card... be a parent. My son's school in Chinatown reopened soon after 9/11. It was the closest school to Ground Zero to reopen so early. President Bush visited my son's classroom, taking questions from the kids. Now, even my first grader knew that we disagreed with nearly every policy of the Bush administration, but rather than shouting and running away, we talked with him about respect for the office, civilized debate in a civilized society, and just plain good manners. It was a parental teaching opportunity and we met it full on. And, we proudly sent pictures of the class saying the Pledge of Alliance with the President to all our family members. Is this sort of civility impossible for the other side?

Anonymous said...

No one was more of a Hitler than that SOB George Bush. Hell awaits.

Anonymous said...

One more reason to home school.

Anonymous said...

More eletists from Ballantyne worried about their damned Glen Beck kiddies hearing the truth. May God have mercy on you southern conservatives who can't accept a black man as President! Shame on your damn soccer mom souls.

Anonymous said...

Didn't Ronald Reagan address school children in a speech at some point?

Anonymous said...

If any of you raving GOP morons want to actually take 5 minutes to read the entire truth on this matter and how it played out, just follow this link to the Pulitzer Prize winning PolitiFact.com.

Once done reading you can post your apologies to the rest of us.

http://politifact.com/truth-o-meter/statements/2009/sep/02/republican-party-florida/republican-party-florida-says-obama-will-indoctrin/

Anonymous said...

This is a wonderful opportunity to teach kids- - about just how small minded and unthinking adults can be. Opposing a message from the president to students might be one of the dumbest things I have ever heard of.

Anonymous said...

http://politifact.com/truth-o-meter/statements/2009/sep/02/republican-party-florida/republican-party-florida-says-obama-will-indoctrin/

Anonymous said...

Nazi Social Control
(a) Control of mass media. All the means of communication were monopolized by the government. The press and the cinema had to show pictures glorifying the Nazi movements. The Ministry of Propaganda, in the hands of Dr. Goebbels, worked to build up the popularity of the Fuhrer.
(b) Control of education. Education, from kindergarten to university, was a tool for indoctrinating the young. Boys (10-18 years old) were sent to the Hitler Youth, girls (10-18 years old) to the Hitler Maidens. School textbooks were re-written along Nazi lines (e.g. race study was emphasized).

(a) All labour unions were abolished by a decree of July 14, 1933. The Labour Front was set up instead. Both employers and employees joined it. According to the National Labour Law of January 20, 1934, the state would exert direct influence and control over all business employing more than twenty persons. In other words, both employers and employees were put under the control of the government.

(b) Many Germans found jobs in the huge public work projects, Hitler Youth, concentration camps and the Nazi party.

Anonymous said...

"He needs to leave the children alone and work on getting people back to work so they can be productive citizens. He is nothing but an actor always having to be in the certer of attraction.
MORE SOICALISM !"

The point of the speech is to encourage children to become productive citizens so when they face a recession they wont be the first to lose their job and the last to get a new one.

Anonymous said...

I'd let my kids listen to Cheney, Palin, or even Joe Biden.....but I won't allow them to listen to this foreign president.

My kids will have flu-like symptoms this day.

Anonymous said...

Anonymous said...
Nazi Social Control

Thanks for the history lesson. It would be very helpful if it had and relevance to the topic at hand - which it does not.

Anonymous said...

I am opposed to his socialist and muslim ideals.

it's that simple, i am sure i will now be crucified for telling why i don't want my 8 yr old obama-ized.

Anonymous said...

Anonymous said...
I'd let my kids listen to Cheney, Palin, or even Joe Biden.....but I won't allow them to listen to this foreign president.

My kids will have flu-like symptoms this day.

Orly Taitz - is that you?

Anonymous said...

The people opposed to this particular President giving a pep talk to students with the message of "stay in school, work hard, set goals" are the same people who heard "messages" in rock songs that were played backwards when I was a teenager.

Anonymous said...

“When an opponent declares, ‘I will not come to your side’, I calmly say, ‘Your child belongs to us already … In a short time they will know nothing else but this new community.”

Hitler and the socialists (NAZIs) 1933

Anonymous said...

Then keep your little GD nordstrom bastards at home to listen to your hate.

Anonymous said...

Anonymous said...
I am opposed to his socialist and muslim ideals.

it's that simple, i am sure i will now be crucified for telling why i don't want my 8 yr old obama-ized.

Yep - stay in school, study hard, take personal responsibility - socialist muslim ideals for sure.

And President is a Christian who happens to be respectful of other religions, including Islam.

Anonymous said...

Let's see if the Observer reports the absentee rate Tuesday. Come on people - there's too much mystery and secrecy around this speech. It came out of the blue. It's NOT just a speech by the president. Patriots - resist tyranny!

Anonymous said...

to anon 1:20 - What are his muslim ideas?

Anonymous said...

my kids will watch his talk on one condition.

1. Show us your birth certificate


you ain't from around here Barry! when you show you are one of us, then we can talk.

Anonymous said...

Anonymous said...
“When an opponent declares, ‘I will not come to your side’, I calmly say, ‘Your child belongs to us already … In a short time they will know nothing else but this new community.”

Hitler and the socialists (NAZIs) 1933

The only thing we have to fear is fear itself. FDR

You are paranoid - Anonymous me

Anonymous said...

Here is the problem...everytime we object to what the Obama says or does "we have a deep seated resentment to his race". This is not the case. What we are upset with is the fact that Obama looks and acts and appoints his people that trend toward communist. Hopefully sooner than later the people who elected him will realize this and demand change. Let me remind you that under communist rule there are no entitlement programs that we have today.

Anonymous said...

An opportunity. I was talking to my son last night and informed him that he will probably hear Obama speak on Tuesday. He was less than thrilled by the topic - typical. He sked if he would definitely see the speech and I said no. "Why not?" I explained that some parent do not want the President to talk to students and some parents don't want this President talking to their children. He said that was, "stupid, he's the President." I said I agreed, but that they are entitled to their opinion and that we need to respect it. He thought it was unfair that he would not see the President because "someone elses Mom didn't want it to happen." It was a good lesson on tolerance and one that appears lost on the parents.

Anonymous said...

Anonymous said...
my kids will watch his talk on one condition.

1. Show us your birth certificate


you ain't from around here Barry! when you show you are one of us, then we can talk.

Birther alert!

Anonymous said...

Will the president explain how he has wasted away the future of these kids by bankrupting our country.

At least the kids probably road to school in a new car made possible by the brilliant cash for clunkers program.

Anna said...

There's nothing wrong with the President wanting to motivate children. And I truly hope that's his one and only intention.

BUT - The suspect thing here is he's speaking ONE DAY before his big healthcare address and that he won't release the speech until the evening BEFORE the actual speech. And the thing that concerns me the most is the curriculum that the Department of Education is trying to release. The initial curriculum had students writing letters to themselves about how they could help the president. STRANGE. His timing is way to suspect and don't tell me that his office didn't realize this would cause a stir. He couldn't have waited a bit? Is what he'll tell the kids that life changing that they need to know right now, right at this second? It's not the speech itself that scares me - its his motivations. He's a political leader - everything he does is for his own benefit. I would be suspect about ANY political leader talking to ALL THE CHILDREN IN THE COUNTRY at the very same time.

Anonymous said...

They were great programs you moron!

Anonymous said...

The rich GOPer's need to keep their kids at home on this day for sure....maybe even let them work for the day to help pay for the tax-burdening, country crushing, minority leaches that are so in love with count barackula.

Anonymous said...

What a bunch of Bill James, Flip Benham loving idiots from the wonderful republican party of Charlotte. Your Ballantyne plan for utopia is crumbling and you can't do a damn thing about it! Now that's entertainment!!

Anonymous said...

i totally agree that any attempt for the Government to broadcast a political agenda into public schools should be stopped, what is next? locking down the internet? stopping talking radio? raising taxes during a recession? stop wait - they are already doing that. come on, as the commercial says "WAKE UP PEOPLE".

Anonymous said...

Why do liberals always resort to name calling?

And one more thing: E.L.I.T.I.S.T.

That's how you spell elitist.

Anonymous said...

Who gives a damn. You should be able to spell it since that's what you are.

Anonymous said...

I hope these conservative sit down there in southpark and ballantyne and go crazy as all hell because they can't do one damn thing about destroying more democracy like Bush. When the oxygen runs out in your little bubble down there, don't look to the rest of us to provide any air!!

Anonymous said...

"When the oxygen runs out in your little bubble down there, don't look to the rest of us to provide any air!!"

Telling us not to look to you for provisions????

now that is funny my friend! I am still laughing about that comment. you've outdone yourself.

Anonymous said...

Hugo Chavez regularly addresses the school kids over tv.

I don't see a big deal.

Anonymous said...

"In Cabarrus County we've been told that parents are not allowed to be in the classroom for the speech. This is highly suspect to me. If the speech is so innocent as they claim, why can't the parents be there to hear it as well. My child will NOT be going to school on Tuesday, or I may just check him out early. Absolutely ridiculous!"

You really think Cabarrus County schools know some secret message the president is going to say and the rest of the country doesn't? Don't be so ignorant. And for the rest of you people, you're the reason the youth today hate politics. That's why the top students are going into different fields and we get stuck with some incompetent and disconnected politicians. I'm not a supporter but he's the President so he deserves the opportunity.

Anonymous said...

Larry Gauvreau for President!

Anonymous said...

will the kids have to bow or salute him?

Anonymous said...

Provisions? Well, maybe! Damn right. You'll be making up for all those taxes you got by with not having to pay under Emperor Bush! Now you will pay.

Anonymous said...

I feel that who want to put blame on Obama for unemployment need to stop being so naive. Knowing that, that was an issue long before he hit office. And even though some of you call him "the messiah", he isn't god! And he definitely can't make miracles overnight and clean up this mess that was left behind by YOUR last president.
*Futhermore, if McCain had been elected would you let your children watch him? When the unemployment rate would be the same as it is now. I feel whoever had been chosen other than President Obama, they would be facing the same challenges and be where he is now. TRYING to clear up all this mess. Give the man a chance! Bush drove it to h*// in his terms. Focus on that!

Anonymous said...

The funny thing is that many people are forgetting that he's still the President of the United States...regardless of your belief, if you're a citizen of this great country, then he is your president too.

Second, the mention of unemployment being 9.7%, stimulus package (or the lack there of) has nothing to do with encouraging our youth to do better. It's really sad when a nation is so divided because of the economy. We got in this situation together, the only way we're going to make it out is together. Stop being so hateful towards you fellow man. God Bless.....

Anonymous said...

This mind control stuff is laughable. This coming from a group of people who are parroting verbatum what they read on Drudge or hear on Fox. Anyone with critical thinking skills will see this for what it is-a nice speech advocating education.

Anonymous said...

I'm not against the speech, I'm against the accompanying study plan with kids writing "What I can do to help President Obama." They should be pledging allegiance to the flag and America, not to any one President.

Anonymous said...

Smart move...

Anonymous said...

"Provisions? Well, maybe! Damn right. You'll be making up for all those taxes you got by with not having to pay under Emperor Bush! Now you will pay."

You crack me up, why does my success and happiness enrage you? you should look to those above to inspire, not tear those down to your level of unhappiness.

I wish you well my friend.

Anonymous said...

Anonymous said...
I feel that who want to put blame on Obama for unemployment need to stop being so naive. Knowing that, that was an issue long before he hit office. And even though some of you call him "the messiah", he isn't god! And he definitely can't make miracles overnight and clean up this mess that was left behind by YOUR last president.
...............................
Now that we're at a 26 year high for unemployment, it doesn't have ANYTHING to do with the current president and the current economy? Are you sure about that? He may not be able to make miracles overnight, but he sure knows how to quadruple the national deficit. Way to go!

When this country goes to hell in a handbasket, I'll be the one driving the SUV with the bumper sticker that reads "Don't blame me, I voted for the other guy."

Anonymous said...

Obviously I was correct in think not one moron from the Charlotte GOP would read this. If they did they would be eating crow..... as usual.

http://politifact.com/truth-o-meter/statements/2009/sep/02/republican-party-florida/republican-party-florida-says-obama-will-indoctrin/

And the b.s. about him not being a citizen has been disproved a long time ago as well.

Here's his birth certificate:

http://www.politifact.com/media/img/graphics/birthCertObama.jpg

Anonymous said...

More republican lies. Doctored and tainted, just like your pathetic party.

Alex said...

Random thoughts...

1) Amazing amount of hearsay without reading the original or revised curriculum guides. And then only concentrating on the K-6 one and not reading the 7-12 one. K-6 one just has simpler versions of the questions in the 7-12 one that give a MUCH clearer expectation of what the speech would be (e.g., importance of education, responsibility, goal setting)

2) At least one poster has determined the epitome of evil is Ballantyne. I'm sure the SouthPark folks are glad it's migrated South...and York County residents are nervous about the trend.

3) And for all those quoting the rise of the Nazi party and Hitler youth and their socialist/communist bent: The Nazis were Fascists. At least get your political ideologies straight in your rants.

Anonymous said...

Instead of worrying about what President Obama will say to your kids you need to be worried about what you are showing you kids everyday with your racist attitudes. You sit and show them your sorry attitudes against the President of United States. What about that glass of wine you have with dinner every night? What about the curse words that you use with your spouse, or while driving. What about the things you allow them to watch on TV or see on the internet. I have a novel idea don’t worry about President Obama so much try fixing you own freaking issues

Anonymous said...

Obama has better things to do than give one of his teleprompter speaches. CMS does not have time to let them watch Obama talk about nothing. Obama is full of crap. The school system is failing and his little speach is going to do what? Motivate some kid to work hard, yeah maybe for 5 minutes. Besides why does he want them to work hard when he is going to spread the wealth around. Either way my kid goes to private school and this is only one of the reasons on the list. Its actually at the very bottom there are a lot of other issues that supercede this.

Anonymous said...

Anonymous said...
Instead of worrying about what President Obama will say to your kids you need to be worried about what you are showing you kids everyday with your racist attitudes.


Just curious, is it racist when the people who love Obama bitch and moan about GWB?

Anonymous said...

"Its actually at the very bottom there are a lot of other issues that supercede this"

It's your GOP that is making the ruckus. Blame them for wasting peoples time and energy.

Anonymous said...

Just get on with it already and divide the country in two. It's coming to this anyway, do it before the GOP Right Wing Christian Waco's start pulling out their shoot 'em up guns.

It would be very pleasant to be rid of them for good. If it means having to move, so be it. I would definitely vote to divide us.

Anonymous said...

Will Reverend Wright be a part of the broadcast?

Anonymous said...

Great lesson on tolerance and respect being shown to our kids here. A 15 minute speech from the President to our kids about the importance of education and people are attacking and insulting. I hope his speeches touches on the the need to listen to each other and not simply attack the other side. But then again, if he mentions the need for good dental hygiene someone will accuse him of wanting to take over the candy industry.

Anonymous said...

Whites are really beginning to show their faces now..LOL None of them whined like this when Bush's daddy did the same exact thing. Now it's an issue. And I would be afraid of a "Hidden Agenda" too if I were white in America today. Whites have been doing it that way for decades....now they're afraid of it being done to them...LMAO Be afraid, be very afraid...Obama is going to turn us into Communist Nation...LOL ANd hire Farrakahn as the "CZAR of Religion"...LMAO Whites are so paranoid right now....I guess ya'll do believe in Karma...

Anonymous said...

The speech will be broadcast and my son will listen to the President tell him the same things we tell him. If you don't want your child to hear the President tell them about the importance of school. Fine. Take them to McDonald's. To bad they will then miss the opportunity to exchange thoughts with other students on what the President said. God forbid we teach them to have civil discussions when isolation is easier.

Anonymous said...

It's not like Cheney is talking about gun safety.

Anonymous said...

Anonymous said...
will the kids have to bow or salute him?

SEPTEMBER 4, 2009 1:51 PM

No, just sign songs of praise.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SMxOPvIohcM&feature=player_embedded

red and yellow, black and white, all are equal in his sight......

Anonymous said...

http://www.politifact.com/media/img/graphics/birthCertObama.jpg

That's not a birth certificate. It's a certificate of live birth that anyone can get, even if they are foreign born. It does not document the actual birth.

Anonymous said...

Oh heck why not. The more this clueless neophyte opens his pie hole the lower his approval ratings become. Maybe he can have his 9/11 Truther standing by his side as well.

Anonymous said...

my kids will watch.

the attacks in this post are bad from both sides...shame on you all.

white, black...we're all americans

Anonymous said...

is his newly appointed Czar of School Child Relations writing the speech?

Anonymous said...

ANOY@ 2:08 I said nothing about GWB. I have listened to the GOP supporter every since the election bith, whine, and moan call Obama every name in the both and spitting lie, after lie. Why! Because the GOP, Conservatives, etc don't like the fact that a minority is actually in the position of President. Guess what get the f over it and move on. You are a bunch of racists MF! This country has more important things to concentrate on and work on. Anything Obama says or does you complain. I really wish you would get some real business in your life and just let it go. Move on!

Anonymous said...

crystalsbass,

Yes it is and yes it does prove it you Tool.
Town, state, date, time, parent.

Keep on reaching for nothing.........

Anonymous said...

I read a "poster" worried about MORE SOCIALISM because of Obama doing his speech...

Hasn't school always been a socialist view. Maybe I dont understand socialism but I though the way we have run our schools for many, many years was the epitome of socialism.

Many of you are idiots...he is not attempting to brain wash our children. (for the record, I am independent)

Anonymous said...

Anonymous said...
ANOY@ 2:08 I said nothing about GWB. I have listened to the GOP supporter every since the election bith, whine, and moan call Obama every name in the both and spitting lie, after lie. Why! Because the GOP, Conservatives, etc don't like the fact that a minority is actually in the position of President. Guess what get the f over it and move on. You are a bunch of racists MF! This country has more important things to concentrate on and work on. Anything Obama says or does you complain. I really wish you would get some real business in your life and just let it go. Move on!

September 4, 2009 2:34 PM


Um, hi there. I do have some real business in my life. I receive a paycheck on which I pay taxes. I have a home on which I pay taxes. I'm concerned about where MY tax dollars are being pissed away to.

I have THE RIGHT to air my opinion just like you do. I am not a racist. I'm just confused as to why anyone who disagrees with the president is called a racist. Did anyone who disagreed with any prior president get called a racist? Whether they were white, black, red, yellow. I doubt it.

You're exactly right about one thing, though. We DO have more important things to worry about than this "speech" that the pres will be giving to our youth. Why isn't he worried about those more important things?

Anonymous said...

As a black man that actually opposes Obama, I cringe every time someone says "racist" to those that oppose Obama. And for those that say "damned Bush" or "burn in hell Bush" within the past 100+ posts, you're no different. The last time I checked, this is the United States of America and we're free to oppose anyone and everyone in office.

Now, in regards to the speach. Yes, previous presidents spoke to our children and from what I recall, there was very little fan fare about it. However, the uproar here is how this administration wanted "follow up" from the kids. Remember, this is the same folks that had websites and addressed dedicated to "rat out your neighbor" if they opposed healthcare. And oh yeah, what about those random posts from a WH address to those that never-ever emailed the WH?

Let's face it folks, we're seeing some strange things. We have state reps PRAISING Castro, a WH appointing czars that are known communists and putting people into place that oversee the FCC that is on record with doing away with certain things.

I was raised by parents from the left, married someone from the left and used to be a lefty. Now, I'm not so sure the left actually has the best interest of the people in mind anymore. Discuss.

Anonymous said...

Why is it that all those who think that there is nothing wrong with Obama speaking to the kids either are misinformed that it is "JUST" a speech and nothing more or too ignorant to see that on top of the speech there is an Obama lesson plan all about what they can do for President Obama. How about what they can do for THERE COUNTRY! This whole mess is to please Obama's ego. Why pledge, say what you can do for the president when we pledge alligence to THE COUNTRY not the man. Now for all those race baiters, we dont give a crap if he's black, we think there were more qualified "blacks" than Obama, who is qualified to lead a clown parade not this great country.

Anonymous said...

THERE COUNTRY!

It's "THEIR"

Maybe you should take the presidents advise and pay attention in school you tool.

Anonymous said...

You are right. we need dialogue and not anger. we need to get over the I'm right and your a liberal idiot. I'm left and you are a racist if you disagree. If you disagree with me you are un-American. I'm not sure if it is worse that neighbors are talking this way or elected officials (and their discussion of Castro or a need to weed out the communist in Congress (okay, Bachmann is an easy target). The point is we need discussion and respect and tolerance. Was the study guide a bad thing? Sure. So you really think Obama looked it over? It is a 15 minute speech to students. We need dialogue and discussion. The President's speech is a start. Yet it get dragged into the I'm right, you're an idiot. I hate that man rhetoric. The comparison to Hitler, etc. Sad commentary on all of us.

Anonymous said...

Its the PRESDIENT OF THE UNITED STATES people!!!! What happened to the days people respected the President regardless of their particular affiliation?

Anonymous said...

I would just like to know if those opposed would be just as upset if Bush was speaking to their kids. I am liberal I would not care. I think this all just comes down to partisanship and nobody really cares about anything else.

Anonymous said...

The comments from those opposed to the speech are hilarious and disturbing. Well, the world needs ditch diggers too. Good luck!

Anonymous said...

Obama should leave the school and take Catcher in the Rye with him.

Anonymous said...

In communist countries childs are always the main target... scary

Anonymous said...

Awww...White people scared of a black man giving their kids encouragement. Like it might actually show them that blacks are not as bad as my racist mother/father lead me to believe. So yes, I understand yalls fear.

If this was TRUELY a socialist country/president. Yall WOULD NOT have the option to not let your kids see the video. Again, just a bunch of babies that'll say anything and everything to get their way.

dharmamama said...

Obama's speech to schoolchildren stirring up a political fury among adults...

After reading some of these comments, and the ones from yesterday, I think "adults" should have quote marks around it.

Anonymous said...

Mom - Hi honey, how was school today.
Kid - Good. We heard a speech by the President and then wrote a letter to him about how we can help him make our schools better. Then we did math and stuff.
Mom - Are you at all inclined to work on behalf of the democratic party to push health care reform through the Congress?
Kid - Nope. Can I go play now?

Anonymous said...

What's the big deal about this? This is historical. President Obama has two children in elementry school. He's not the only president to do this.

Anonymous said...

mandingo...haha

i don't think my daughter is dumb enough to go that route...i've seen the type.

let's not go down this path, stay on topic.

My kids will watch and respect him, he is the president after all.

Anonymous said...

If they go lusting after his giant mandingo, then let's remember that he's also half white. :-P

Anonymous said...

But it's such a fun path to venture down for a holiday weekend.

Anonymous said...

While the President may be well-intentioned, I have a couple of concerns:

First, this is a de facto requirement for students to listen to the President. For those of you that say that's up to the teacher, when was the last time you said "no" when your boss "encouraged" you to do something?


Second, what if the Guv decides she would like to address the students of NC? And the Mayor of your town?

These objections have nothing to do with the message but rather the precedent.

Tell you what, if it's really "voluntary" participation, OB should give the speech after school hours and schools should hold an optional assembly for those who wish to stay and listen. Then we can see how many students will take advantage of this "historic" opportunity.

Anonymous said...
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Anonymous said...

wowsers!

this post is getting crazy!

some would say michelle has a mandingo....but i won't go there!

Anonymous said...

what is going on here people.

i for sure don't want you sick puppies talking to my kids.

Anonymous said...
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Anonymous said...
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Anonymous said...

TAXATION IS THEFT!!!!!

Anonymous said...

Impeach Bev Perdue!

Anonymous said...

Go Panthers!

Anonymous said...

FREE TIBET!

Anonymous said...

MANDINGO says:

There ya go ! That's the spirit, let it go !!!!

It's Labor Day Weekend and who gives a rodents arse about this upcoming speech. It's a harmless one and your kiddies will become engaged.

Over and out, have a great weekend

8============================)

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Anonymous said...

Batman

Anonymous said...

Mandingo,

You have brought us all together.

merry labor day to all.



ps: i will be asking to see the birth certificate on here next week

Anonymous said...

Count Chocula

Anonymous said...

I'm cocoa for cocoa puffs !!

davidfriday said...

And Mr. Gauvreau just what books would you have them reading, Reagan's biography or Mein Kampf?

Anonymous said...
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Anonymous said...

FrankenBerry

Anonymous said...

WhiteSnake

Anonymous said...

I like hummus but it makes me fart.

Anonymous said...

I have a pair of glass slippers.

Anonymous said...

I am the mysterious Big Foot you seek.

Anonymous said...
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Anonymous said...

I think people are concerned because of what happened the last time a president spoke to children at school in September during his first year in office.

Anonymous said...

GOAT

Anonymous said...
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Anonymous said...

WOW, was that all we had to do to get rid of the conservatives ? That sure was easy.

Anonymous said...

I just finished reading all of the above. I have never been this upset in all my 84 years. Makes me want to go out and take my American Flag down and leave this country. I am so ashamed at all of you. Well, most all of you. Hope all the school children are smarter than their parents.

Mia said...

This whole flair up is so stupid. He is going to discuss the values of getting an education and follow through, is this such a problem for the right wing as a concept. It has nothing to do with brainwashing your children, no worries there as the parents have already done that. I can only hope these kids don't act like their parents when they grow up and actually act like adults and support their president (sound familiar).

Anonymous said...
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August said...

Here is my take...just one person's take on this. I really think there is absolutely no ill intentions for this speech (I don't think Obama is trying to brainwash anybody).

However, I do think there is an arrogance about Obama and his administration that makes them think they can do whatever they like....no matter what.

I also do believe they have re-evaluated the original content of his speech. Originally, teachers were asked to have their students write "How you can help the President"....which really does sound kinda like "indoctrination" (to steal a very over-used word on here).

So...in the end...I think it will be 15 minutes of Rah Rah....no more, no less. I think it will end up being good and bad. Good...cuz students should know who their President is and something about that person. Bad...due to the way this was done...it was forced on kids by the government, and originally had some uncertain goals.

For the folks on here that keep asking, "what is the big deal?"....I hope this helped explain some of the concerns. Primarily, the over-reaching of the Obama administration to continue to force their own views and will into more and more of our daily lives. That's not alarmist or conspiracy thinking...just concern and worry.

Anonymous said...
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Anonymous said...

What is the big freaking deal. If he wants to speak to the kids and encourage them to do good, than let him. I dont feel my child would be harmed in anyway. She probably wouldnt even listen. This country is headed for hell and it is because of all you loser parents out there that wont let their kids make decisions for themselves. These kids are going to be our future and their going to grow up mommas boys, live at home because mommy is afraid he will forget his Purell, eat food from a grocery store and not an organic market. Live life, it is to short to worry about stupid shit. Were always angry and stress is a leading cause of early death.

Anonymous said...

over-reaching of the Obama administration ????

Are you F'ing kidding me ?!?!?!?

Don't even go there ...Bush/Cheney ring a bell ?

Anonymous said...

ORGANIC ROCKS !

and it simply tastes better.

diggndeeper said...

Why will he not go ahead and publish his speech? Anyway you know he needs to call out the black males to be real people but he will not do that. Are you so sure he is only going to speak to encourage kids to study and get an education?

Anyway, if you will not be allowed in your child's school to watch the speech then watch it ot tape it on CSPAN. My only fear is the misinformation some teachers may spread because of the koolaid effect like how the young teachers used to swoon over John Kennedy.

Anonymous said...

MY CHEESEBURGER IS ORGANIC.

Anonymous said...
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Anonymous said...

"what" ?

Anonymous said...

He said "dung"

Anonymous said...

hmmmmmnnnnnnn ?

Anonymous said...

I already am.

August said...

once again...a person cannot say a single thing about Obama without some reference to Bush.

People...this IS the Obama Administration. Get over the Bush issues you have.

We are talking about Obama..period. The more and more I read comments like this, the more I realize the only reason Obama is President is because he is NOT George Bush.

I'm no fan of George Bush at all. I was a fan of Obama. Now I am not so sure.

The issue is Obama....can you actually hold a single conversation with referencing the Bush Administration? I don't think you can.

Anonymous said...

foreskin

Anonymous said...

I prefer "THE SHOCKER"

Anonymous said...

August,

"September"....tag you're it.

Anonymous said...

NGGA PLZZZZZ

Anonymous said...

I like ketchup on my scrambled eggs.

Anonymous said...

I prefer THE SHOCKER over masturbation. Two in the pink, one in the stink.

Anonymous said...

PIZZA PIZZA

Anonymous said...

I think all of these haters are crazy!! I don't see what the big deal is, he is the president, regardless of his color or his nationality. I do not mind my son watching this speech, but he will not be corresponding with the president unless he wants too. I think that most of our children are intelligent enough to make that decision on their own. That is how we produce truthful, trustworthy. responsible and courageous adults. I think that we need to stop the hate monging, and trust our children to make a decision that they are comfortable with. I do not think that he should be talking to our children, that the speech should be given at night so we can watch it with them and discuss any questions that they have. But I may keep my son home for the simple fact that you idiots have reproduced your hate in your children and I am afraid that riots will break out. I hate that my son has to go to school with these poster's children. The apple doesn't fall far from the tree. And my son's school was almost unbearable for him, after Obama got elected. Leave it at home people and encourage your children to act like they have some sense! Just because he is our first "black" president does not mean that we all have to put up with your ravings about all the injustice that has been done to your black ancestors, It happened long ago and no one alive today was enslaved! So stop acting like I owe you something, I DON"T and neither does my son.

Anonymous said...

stink...yeah, yeah !!

August said...

as for my comment about "over-reaching"...I am against all government intervention where it does not belong...that includes Bush and/or Obama.

They both have done the exact same things, just in different venues.

Do you seriously think it's okay for the government to help people buy cars? manage your health care and insurance? dictate the curriculum in schools? bail out private banks?

Seriously...that is what "over-reaching" means?

Anonymous said...

Three in the stink..........plus a champagne bottle.

Anonymous said...

My MANDINGO is over reaching for sure.

Anonymous said...

He said 'MANDINGO"

Anonymous said...

My 5th nut is sore today.

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