This really was the idea of the kids, not the teachers or some board member for political grandstanding, so at least that's neat. The kids got all into this thing when one of the debates took place at Hofstra, just a few blocks from the elementary school. It's being touted as a great lesson in patriotism and democracy, and it is, tho I wonder if the same things would be said if the Board had voted 5-0 the other way.
I checked, 63% Hispanic, 37% black. Charles Ludlum was the president of the Hempstead (village) Board of education from 1888 to 1928.
The resolution from the students (I'm guessing with the help of the teaching staff, though the grammar makes me a little suspect of that) that was presented to the School Board:
"Whereas the Ludlum School students conducted a mock presidential debate related to the recent presidential elections and whereas the students did a wonderful job of carrying out their tasks and demonstrating their patriotism at an early age and whereas in recognition of their efforts and the victorious feat of Sen. Barack Obama in becoming the first African-American president of the United States, it be resolved that the Hempstead Board of Education proudly renames Ludlum Elementary School as the Barack Obama Elementary School."
OK, first of all, "
proudly renames" is past tense plural, yet this is a resolution presented to the School Board for consideration in their voting. It should be singular.
Second of all, don't get me started on "
it be resolved".
