Published: September 05, 2009 11:19 pm      

President's speech optional for students in county schools

CUMBERLAND — Some Allegany County teachers might broadcast President Barack Obama’s education speech in their classrooms on Tuesday, but no student will be required to watch it.

Principals sent notes home with students Friday, explaining the school system would handle the speech, said Mia Perlozzo Cross, spokeswoman.

“As with any type of activity where a parent might not want their child to participate — like Halloween, for example — we always provide an alternate activity,” said Cross, adding that administrators have received a number of phone calls from parents concerned about how the speech will be handled in area schools.

To be delivered at noon and broadcast via streaming video to students across the country, the back-to-school speech has been criticized by some who believe it’s an inappropriate attempt to promote a political agenda.

The White House has maintained Obama’s intention is to encourage children to remain in school and push themselves to achieve their goals. It plans to release a copy of the speech on Monday so schools and parents can decide whether or not it’s appropriate.

In Allegany County, teachers are to use their own discretion, Cross said.

“If a teacher feels that the president’s message aligns with the curriculum in their classroom and the timing of the broadcast is conducive to viewing, they may certainly do so,” she said.

Parents who want more information about what’s planned in a particular classroom are encouraged to contact their child’s school directly.

The speech is scheduled to last about 15 or 20 minutes and will take place in a classroom at Wakefield High School in Arlington, Va.

Contact Kristin Harty at kharty@times-news.com.