Obama Girls Schooling - Public or Private?

I can hear it already. When the Obama's finally settle on a private school for their two young daughters, some of those on the right will again call them elitist, out of touch, and some other choice epithets raised during the campaign.

Philosophically I would like to see the President's kids go to a public school where most of us spent many years learning the foundations of what we know (or don't know) today. What's wrong with the public schools? "Aren't they good enough?" some will whine. The sad truth is that many of them are not good enough. Especially in D.C. That is a crime in itself; some D.C. schools are way below the national average in achievement.

Beyond that, however, is where I go after I get off my philosophical high horse. The first issue is what is best for these two girls, and foremost among those sub-categories is what is best for their safety. It is no secret that it would easier for the Secret Service to protect these girls in a private institution. They are not just any little girls anymore but are the kids of the next U.S. President, who will still be the leader of the free world even though his scepter might be a little tarnished.

Second, these kids should get the best education possible while still keeping them in town with their parents. If a private school can provide that leg up, then so be it. Parental choice.

Supposedly, as of this date, the Obama's say they haven't made up their minds yet, but given the priority they give to their girls' welfare, my best guess is that they will choose a private school. Think about this too. A President Obama will be less distracted and more focused on worrying about our country's problems if he doesn't have to worry quite as much each school day about his most treasured possessions.