Our own "Dear Leader"

President Obama will be addressing America’s school children. That’s OK; it’s pretty mild stuff about seeking excellence. But take a look at what the Department of Education has done with “helpful” lesson plans it has prepared for teachers to use in conjunction with the speech—especially the one for grades 7 through 12.

Before the speech, teachers are urged to use "notable quotes excerpted (and posted in large print on board) from President Obama's speeches about education" and to "brainstorm" with students about the question "How will he inspire us?" Suggested topics for post-speech discussion include "What resonated with you from President Obama's speech?" and "What is President Obama inspiring you to do?"

Now, this is going too far. It’s one thing to focus on the kids and their need to strive for excellence. It’s something else to turn the focus toward the President. “How will he inspire us?” sounds a lot like a North Korean inquiry into their “Dear Leader” and his ability to carry the nation to safety on his back, fighting off the evil imperialists. This whole thing is a continuation of the concept of a secular messiah, come to save us all (mostly from ourselves). Remember the campaign rhetoric like “We are the ones we’ve been waiting for”? Somebody close to the President needs to tell him Americans want a limited government.