President Obama's Speech gets Mixed Reactions
By: Amber Miller
Updated: September 10, 2009
In Caddo Parish, parents had the option to allow their child to participate. At Central Elementary School one parent checked no when asked if his kids could watch the message.
"I just think they're kindergarten, 1st grade," said Matthew Bordelon, Central Elementary School parent. "I don't think they'll understand everything he's talking about."
The rest of the students watched the speech from start to finish. Some told NBC 6 News when it was over they felt inspired.
"His father left him when he was two years old," said LaKayla Frierson, Central Elementary fourth grader. "His mom was struggling. But, he still went on."
"He was trying to explain how you have to get off the streets and have a good education," said Daylan Burns, Central Elementary School fourth grader. "Get you a job and never give up and keep on going for it. Don't ever give up."
Bordelon tells NBC 6 News he teaches his children the same lessons.
"Don't give up in school," said Bordelon. "You ain't gonna make it nowhere without it."
Bordelon and President Obama relay similar messages to the children who will shape tomorrow.


