The American educational system, flawed as it is, is still operating.
The meltdown anticipated by so many conservative parents when President Obama addressed American school children last week did not occur.
American children exposed to the president’s speech are still defiant, still climbing trees, skinning knees, still studying, and, maybe, just maybe, thinking more about picking up a book.
The whole controversy about the president’s speech Sept. 8 was just another demonstration of the extreme polarization of American politics — something which serves no purpose other than to divide the country.
Differing political philosophies is the American way. It has worked here for centuries, and it will continue to work.
Polarization, however, to the point that we suspect the president is trying to inflict propaganda on our children with a speech, is another, especially when the speech is released in advance of its delivery and no propaganda is found.
Any conservative, after reading the speech, should come to the conclusion that Obama’s speech resonated with Republican themes.
In the speech was talk about responsibility, opportunity and self-reliance, all of which are hallowed Republican themes.
“(A)t the end of the day, we can have the most dedicated teachers, the most supportive parents, and the best schools in the world — and none of it will matter unless all of you fulfill your responsibilities. Unless you show up to those schools; pay attention to those teachers; listen to your parents, grandparents and other adults; and put in the hard work it takes to succeed,” Obama said.
Those lines could have easily come from a speech delivered by President Reagan, President George H.W. Bush or President George W. Bush.
Many remarks could have been uttered by Caterpillar executives.
“What you make of your education will decide nothing less than the future of this country. What you’re learning in school today will determine whether we as a nation can meet our greatest challenges in the future,” Obama said. “You’ll need the knowledge and problem-solving skills you learn in science and math .... You’ll need the creativity and ingenuity you develop in all your classes to build new companies that will create new jobs and boost our economy. We need every single one of you to develop your talents, skills and intellect so you can help solve our most difficult problems. If you don’t do that — if you quit on school — you’re not just quitting on yourself, you’re quitting on your country.”
Obama has had his share of gaffes. Conservative concerns are valid.
But, conservatives need not react with calls of conspiracy to every move made by Obama. This was not one of those times when conservatives owned the high road.
Washington, Ill. —
