The "judgment" of the presidential candidates has become a major issue in this year's campaign, perhaps because citizens are worried about the dearth of judgment on display in American society. Case in point: a Kansas City charter school teacher who recently posted a video to YouTube featuring his fatigues-clad students chanting in support of presidential candidate Barack Obama. And--surprise!--the digital masterpiece may now cost him his job. The teacher, who has been suspended, filmed the students in May performing a step routine modeled on traditional black fraternity stepping. The group of students quotes elements of Obama's healthcare plan and announces which profession Obama has inspired each of them to join. According to the school's principal, Joyce McGautha, the school was aware of the video and warned the teacher not to put it on the internet. Note to teachers: sometimes principals know what they are talking about. Being motivated by national leaders is undoubtedly a powerful and positive thing; said inspiration should not be demonstrated by orchestrated, cultish, partisan displays in military garb. 'Nuff said.
"Teacher suspended for students' Obama chants," by Joe Robertson, The Kansas City Star, October 7, 2008
"Middle School Teacher Suspended for 'Obama Frat' Spat," by Jennifer Lawinsky, Foxnews.com, October 6, 2008