The Conference Coach™

My children are grown, but as I watch the news in Georgia, everyone here is up in arms about having their students watch the back to school message from the President.  So I admit that I am a Republican, didn’t vote for him, but come on people, is this something we should spend time thinking about. 

I decided to check out the text of the speech online at www.whitehouse.gov, and here’s where I found some radically subversive language:  “….show up to those schools; pay attention to those teachers; listen to your parents, grandparents and other adults; and put in the hard work it takes to succeed.”  And how about this….”That’s why today, I’m calling on each of you to set your own goals for your education — and to do everything you can to meet them”

My best job ever was the one that I had right out of college, a middle school English teacher.  I’m glad the President cares enough to challenge our students to work hard, set goals, stay in school and take control of your education.  Remember that George Bush and Ronald Reagan had the same speech for our young people on their first days in school and nobody decided to protest that.

Summer is past us now and I’m putting away all my clothes that have white in them – Southern girls don’t wear white after Labor Day.  I love the fall.  It’s the busiest time in the conferencing industry where businesses get back to business.  Now, that I am a “president” of sorts, here’s my back to work speech.

• Let the task be the boss and work until the task is done.
• Look for ways that you can make a contribution, each and every day.
• Find ways to have fun in your job
• Learn something new every day.
• Work harder than anyone else.
• Be responsible.  Do what you say you’re going to do.
• Add to a positive work climate.

I could go on and on, but I think I’m going to watch Mr. Obama’s speech today and be inspired the way I know he will inspire the kids at school.  Good job, Mr. President.