Pierce Park Elementary fifth and sixth graders joined me for a visit in the Statehouse recently. After we 
reviewed how a bill becomes a law, I read them a book called, If I Were President. The book addresses a lot of the formal duties of the president like working with a cabinet, meeting with foreign dignitaries, and working with Congress. After reading the book to them, I asked them what they would do if they were president.
What I thought would be a fun and engaging learning process about government, turned into be a profound statement of what these kids are dealing with and what is on their minds. Here is what they said when I asked…
WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF YOU WERE PRESIDENT?
- “Find a home for everyone”
- “End poverty, which would end hunger”
- “End racism”
- “Make schools safe”
- “Eliminate trash”
- “Make sure there’s money for cancer research”
- “Build a large building where homeless people can live”
- “Stop climate change”
- “Make jobs for everyone”
- “Make sure people can see a doctor”
- “Help everyone”
Now there were a few “make it rain donuts” responses, but almost all the responses were very serious, especially the statement about “making schools safe.” I was also struck how many times the need for “homes” came up.
I stood there in wonder. All I could think was “out of the mouth of babes…” Without even knowing it, these kids were reminding me of the most important things people need: a safe home, safe schools, food, a job, clean environment, and love.
This was a great way to end my week. We deal with a lot of issues every day in the Legislature, but they all go back to how we can help citizens in our state live better and more productive lives. I will take the lessons from these students to heart and remember their sincere answers as I do the “people’s work” now and in the future. A special thanks to the hard working teachers out there who are helping these students learn and develop critical thinking skills – a reminder of the value of investing in quality education for our children.