President Obama addressed students at Wakefield High School in Arlington, Virginia, on the importance of taking responsibility for their success in school. He spoke of difficulties in his own childhood, and recounted the stories of those who overcame hardships and rejections yet still graduated from high school or college, or became physicians, authors, or professional athletes. In his remarks he said, "We can have the most dedicated teachers, the most supportive parents, and the best schools in the world - and none of it will matter unless all of you fulfill your responsibilities. Unless you show up to those schools; pay attention to those teachers; listen to your parents, grandparents and other adults; and put in the hard work it takes to succeed."

Prior to the speech, a debate ensued from some who believed the president should not speak to elementary, middle, and high school students in a national address. In previous years, Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush also spoke to students in addresses that were shown to students around the country.