our school district crafted the "Obama Opt In/Out" letter so only idiots would sign.

[kid a]

The first paragraph preempts any talk of inappropriate invasion with a quote from the district's "Political Figure Guidelines" where it specifically invites community leaders, politicians, and service workers to visit, talk about education, observe classes, and share their education experience but "refrain from political campaigning on campus."

The second paragraph quotes the educational guidelines and teacher resources that are available to all educators and students at the Whitehouse.gov site.

The third paragraph lists in bullet format 6 educational and community service benefits and advantages of participating in the presentation as well as detailed guidelines for the teacher led discussion about school afterward.

The fourth paragraph urges the K-2 classes to "Opt-In" to the opportunity (our district is showing it to K3-12) - I love that the Opt-In was first!

That last paragraph before the opt-in / opt-out choices says..."We understand that some parents might object to those educational opportunities for your child and an alternative activity will be provided"

Perfect.

[rwheeler31]

1. You got it.

[rosesaylavee]

2. And is this something new for them this year or was this

in place for the former Presidents' first year talk to the schools? President Obama isn't reinventing the wheel here...this is pretty standard protocol for first year presidents. Reagan and Bush the Smarter did it...

[kid a]

4. Not sure about that. I remember our district "waived" all absences for a bush town visit in 2001

[rosesaylavee]

5. I think having the television on in a classroom for 20-30 minutes

hearing from the President give a speech geared towards staying in school and the value of education is not something to be waived. If they did waive absences at that time for Bush 2, I think it was wrong and sent the wrong message then. Not sure what the purpose of Bush 2's visit was, but it couldn't have been too involved as to merit a full day off of school.

[IdClaire]

3. I love the language "opt in"

We got a letter but it was the opposite...with the opt out message. I think I will say in my letters that my kids "opt in" on the educational opportunity this provides. :)

[whirlygigspin]

6. ...and when Obama asks the children...

"and do your parents want you to have health care or would they rather see you die sick and alone in the street?"

should be a fun moment in tv history

[marshall]

7. Does it explain what the "alternative activity" will be?

How about cleaning the football locker room toilets? LOL!