DECATUR — As a President’s Day writing assignment, kindergarten students at Decatur Northside Elementary School wrote about what they would do if they were elected President of the United States. The students’ answers gave some insight into the minds of the next generation of Americans. Some of the responses are surprisingly insightful and wise, while others bring a smile.

Environmental issues seemed to be a priority for students. Eleven wrote, “If I were President, I would keep the Earth clean.”

Many focused on improving people’s lives and revealed that even 5-yearolds are well aware of the world’s problems. “If I were the President, I would lower the gas prices,” wrote Abbie Davis. “If I were the President, I will help people make good choices,” wrote Johnathon Beats.

“If I were the President, I would make sure everybody has a house to live in and food,” Kaden Thompson wrote.

Four others wrote that as President they would keep people safe, and three wrote they would build more schools. “If I were the President, I would work and people would have food,” Skyla Yang wrote. “If I were the President, I would make sure everybody will have food,” Braulio Encheverria wrote.

And what is kindergarten all about, if not learning to enjoy the good things in life.

“If I were the President, I would play with my dog,” wrote Kaydence Steel. Another wrote, “If I were thepresident, I would eat ice cream and pies.”

“If I were president, I would make sure everyone eats ice cream for breakfast,” wrote Judith Lauber.

With that platform, Judith just might win the election.

Opinion, Pages 6 on 03/02/2011