Presidential National Address to Students
Prior to the speech, a debate ensued from some who believed the president should not speak to elementary, middle, and high school students in a national address. In previous years, Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush also spoke t
President Obama addressed students at Wakefield High School in Arlington, Virginia, on the importance of taking responsibility for their suc… read more
President Obama addressed students at Wakefield High School in Arlington, Virginia, on the importance of taking responsibility for their success in school. He spoke of difficulties in his own childhood, and recounted the stories of those who overcame hardships and rejections yet still graduated from high school or college, or became physicians, authors, or professional athletes. In his remarks he said, “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.”
Prior to the speech, a debate ensued from some who believed the president should not speak to elementary, middle, and high school students in a national address. In previous years, Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush also spoke t close
People in this video
More PeopleHosting Organization
Series
More Videos From
White House Events
- Reaction to Presidential Address to Students
- White House Daily Briefing
- Health Care Reform Agenda
- President Obama and Secretary Duncan Discussion with Students
Related Video
-
Obama Administration Education Agenda
Education Secretary Arne Duncan talked about education reform, including the role of the federal government in education…
-
Education Secretary Remarks on Anti-Bullying Efforts
Arne Duncan addressed the Department of Education’s first summit on efforts to prevent bullying in public schools. He ta…
-
U.S. Education Policy
Education Secretary Arne Duncan spoke about education policy in the U.S. Topics included competitiveness, school discipl…
-
President Obama Remarks on No Child Left Behind
President Obama announced that ten states were given approval to opt out of the “No Child Left Behind” education law. Th…