GEORGETOWN, S.C. —  Students at a local school have some extra motivation for this year’s PASS test, which begins this week.

Last year, sixth graders in Diptesh Kundu’s science class wrote letters to President Obama detailing what they had learned and their goals for the future.

They also let the president know what they expected from him during his time in office and asked him to visit the school.

They were surprised in November when a letter from the president arrived at Carvers Bay Middle School, addressed to Kundu’s students.

It was complete with a signed picture of the president and a photograph of his dog, Bo.

“My students were highly motivated and inspired by the letter which I thought would be great to share with every middle school student of the county when they are getting ready for this crucial test (this) week,” Kundu said.

“It means a lot to my students and really motivates them when their work gets appreciated.”

Students wrote a rough draft, typed it and then read the best letters to their peers before they mailed them in April 2009, Kundu said.

It was ELA writing practice that included Science standards, since they had to review what they have studied in Science, Kundu said.

“This also helped them to relate to the current world and happenings around them,” Kundu said.

Below is the letter from the president:

Dear students:

Thank you for your kinds notes. Your thoughtful words join a chorus of millions of Americans who are eager to lead our nation toward a brighter tomorrow.

Each day, I am inspired by the encouraging message of hope and determination I have received from students across the country. America needs young people like you who are studying hard in school, serving your community and dreaming dreams. Our country faces great challenges, but we will overcome them if we work together.

America’s future will be determined by our willingness to shoulder each other’s burdens, take great risks, and move forward as one people and one nation. With your help, we will build on what we have already achieved and lay a new foundation for real and lasting progress.

Sincerely,

Barack Obama

By Clayton Stairs

cstairs@gtowntimes.com