I thought that was a great speech and I think all high school students would benefit from that speech, if they bothered to listen, so it's a shame to hear that schools opted out of airing it in there classrooms. So true. Everybody needs to take responsibility for education, teachers, government, parents and the student. And some inspiring stories of average Americans who had obsticles in there way but still kept trying, like the guy with the brain tumour. I would have no problem with my kids hearing it. They could come away with something, even if to just make them think. Where is Ruddys speech, Aussies. I hear more about Obama I think.

Obama was homeschooled for a time, is that right?

You know to me this is a thing that all Presidents (what ever their race may be) should give. I know a lot of the Rebublicans were saying this was a way for Obama to brainwash us kids. HOW?!?! Ok if telling us we need to get a good education, and we should strive to make our selves better people is "brainwashing" then sign me up. I will gladely do that in a heart beat. But for people to say this because he is African-American is ubserd! Both Regan and G.W.Bush gave this speech and NO ONE said anything about it, they applauded them. Why do you ask? BECAUSE THEY WERE WHITE! People are so hung up on their predjuices that they couldnt give a rat butt about what is actually good for the country. I for one am ashamed that these are the people leading my country, people who cannot accept all races as equals, and they have to bash others to gain there social status. KUDOS for Obama! CHANGE IS IN PROGRESS!!

Jaxon loved the president! What a great speech! Education is everything, without it we have nothing!

Raven

Inspiring!

I dont see either why anyone would choose to opt out of it. Anything which motivates kids is surely to be grasped with both hands!!!

Thanks Izzy

That was really interesting, personally I would have thought it very motivating!!!

Love the way he doesn't hide his simple background, makes him seem more approachable, loved the way he sums up failing as being just a way of trying again!!!!

Pretty excellent speech in my opinion

xxx