White House releases President’s speech to students, parents still fired up

Schools and parents across the country are divided on whether students will hear a message from President Obama on Tuesday.

Some conservatives have criticized his address, calling it “politically motivated”.

Hoping to end the controversy,  the White House on Monday released the text so schools and parents could decide for themselves if students should watch.

Critics call it political indoctrination. 

Some parents are threatening to keep their kids home from school.

The speech is aimed at motivating children to do their best.

“I think it’s a sad, sad day that the political back and forth has intruded on anyone speaking to schoolchildren and teachers and parents about the responsibilities that they have,“ said White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs in reaction to the controversy.

The president will tell students their goals can be as simple as doing homework, paying attention in class or spending time each day reading a book.