CHICAGO – "Wel-come to the fourth grade, so happy to meet you," sings first year teacher Dwayne Reed – and says he'll be making up songs to help his students learn.
"We'll study science, mathematics, English – keep it positive, that's the key," he sings.
The YouTube description says that Mr. Reed's song has a melody very similar to Michael Jackson's "I Will Be There."
"The artist did not intend to steal, rip, riff, or mimic Mr. Jackson's song, but apparently, powerful songs and their sounds can remain lodged in people's memory even decades after they've been released or heard," the video's director wrote on the YouTube page.
"As to avoid any controversy or issues, Mr. Reed has chosen not to sell his 'Welcome to the 4th Grade' song, opting only to use it as a fun way to connect with his students and start the school year with some excitement!"
We say, "Love the creativity and thinking outside the box, Mr. Reed. Your students will have a year they will always remember, for sure."
