Nichols Addresses Speech In Letter To Principals

Quite a controversy is brewing over President Obama’s intention to address the nation’s school children on Tuesday concerning the need to stay in school and to graduate. Some parents are adamant that they do not want their children to view the speech. Other parents are adamant that they want their children to have an opportunity.

The School System will treat this speech in much the same way as we treated a speech to the nation’s school children delivered by President H.W. Bush in 1991. The school system will not require participation but will make the speech available. Our Information Technology Services department has been asked to record the speech and make it available for those who want to view it at sometime other than its original broadcast time. We will leave the decision as to when and if the speech will be shown in your school up to you. You know your school’s parents better than anyone else.

I would prefer that if you decide to show the speech that participation be voluntary. Students should not be penalized if they do not participate.

I hope that this information is helpful in making your decision as to how the President’s speech should be handled in your school..