Speech Signifying Nothing?

Here’s a report from Politico:

Education Secretary Arne Duncan dismissed the controversy over President Barack Obama’s back-to-school speech as “silly stuff,” saying students can decide for themselves whether or not to watch the 18-minute speech.

Let’s start with the “silly” characterization.  Duncan’s words will offend a great number of people.  Unnecessarily.  He’s belittling and dismissive. [...]