Let's Chat: 'Think and Grow Rich' Assembly Draws Ire From Parents

Pottstown School District Superintendent Reed Lindley is facing a backlash from students and parents following a school-wide assembly aimed at motivating students to think as entrepreneurs.

According to a report by Evan Brandt from the Pottstown Mercury, the mandatory "Think and Grow Rich" assembly included asking students to sell coffee for a chance to win an iPad, and caused some parents to wonder if the school district had gotten involved in a pyramid scheme.

In an interview with the Pottstown Mercury, Superintendent Lindley denied that a pyramid scheme was presented to students, but apologized for the negative outcome of the presentation.

"I apologize for any negative consequences of my decision to move forward with this program," said Lindley in the interview. "I believe that we do realize that participating in a goal-oriented business program provides an opportunity for students to engage in a positive and meaningful endeavor with the potential to improve their self-worth and their subsequent capacity to engage in more focused academic studies." (Read the Mercury's full story here)

Patch Wants to Know!

Considering the nature of the assembly, should high-school students be exposed to such content? Should it have been elective? Do you think the assembly taught valuable lessons to the students? Would you oppose the school district pursuing similar initiatives?

Leave a comment below and let us know where you stand on the matter.