
President Barack Obama made a surprise visit to a Maryland school today to offer encouragement and congratulations.
Mr. Obama stopped by Viers Mill Elementary School outside Washington, where he met with third- and fourth-grade students during their lunch period. The school receives federal poverty aid and has been celebrated for closing the achievement gap between minority children and other students.
Viers Mill Principal Matt Devan says the President made his way through the cafeteria, shaking hands with students and asking them what they were reading. Devan says Obama also offered some students advice on their fledgling political careers.
"A couple of our students running for student council asked him for some advice on how to get elected," Devan says. "I thought that was a pretty special moment." Obama said he came to Viers Mill because it is "a great example of how much improvement a school can make."
Jonathan Wilson reports...

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