Let children listen, Herbert says of speech

Despite some people nationwide decrying President Barack Obama's planned student broadcast, Utah Gov. Gary Herbert is speaking out in favor of letting the children listen.

"I think it's great. To hear from the president of the United States is an important thing. I'd like to hear what he has to say," Herbert told the Deseret News Saturday.

The Republican governor further said he believes Obama's words will foster excellent discussion.

"I hope parents will take the opportunity to discuss the issues with their children — hear what the president's views are and what his vision is for the future of America. If they agree, then explain that. If they disagree, explain to their children why," Herbert said.

"I see nothing but good coming out of this."

Obama's speech, directly addressing the nation's students, will air live at 10 a.m. Tuesday on www.whitehouse.gov and C-SPAN.

According to the U.S. Department of Education, Obama will speak on "persisting and succeeding in school." He will "challenge students to work hard, set educational goals, and take responsibility for their learning."

The White House plans to release a transcript of Obama's speech Monday on the Web site.

That doesn't satisfy some parents, however. Paul Eggleston, who has a kindergarten student in Granite School District, says that's too little, too late.

"Let's face it. Monday is a holiday," he said.

Eggleston added he is a bit taken aback at Herbert's support of the broadcast, since the governor hasn't viewed the transcript yet. "I am surprised. And I really like Gary Herbert."

Some Republicans in Utah County, however, say they aren't surprised at the governor's words — and they agree with him.

Sen. Curt Bramble, R-Provo, told the Deseret News he supports Herbert's views and sees Obama's broadcast as "a great opportunity" to discuss the issue with his own children.

Others say it's the classroom activities, not the speech, that has people upset. The curriculum suggested by the U.S. Department of Education originally included having students write an essay about how they can support Obama, say those who viewed the Web site (www.ed.gov) a few days ago.

"That question would be a concern for me as a parent," said Stan Lockhart, former Utah State Republican Party Chairman.