Just a typical first day of school if typical means a senator, a congressman, the Health and Human Services Secretary and the mayor all drop by. Their hosts are 7th and 8th graders; the mission is to watch the President's speech.
Obama told kids what they do in school is critical.
The primary message was responsibility and hard work. The President said his father left his family when he was 2-years-old, his mother struggled, he understands there can be hardships but that's no excuse for neglecting your homework or having a bad attitude. He goes on to say it's also no excuse for talking back to your teacher, cutting class or dropping out of school.
So what did these kids take away from the speech? They said doing their part by going to school, doing the work and graduating. Another student told us he would pay attention in class more and be on time. Others said if you learn and have a good education and stay out of trouble that you can follow your dreams.
