What issue should Barack Obama make a top priority as president? In the latest essay in a Boston.com series leading up the presidential inauguration, 4th- and 5th-grade students at the Shaloh House Jewish Day School in Brighton highlight the economy, the environment, and Israel's security.
Help Israel defend itself
By Shaloh House students
January 12, 2009
Dear Mr. President-elect:
There are a few things that the students in our class are hoping you can work on during your presidency.
Because the economy is so bad now, we think it's important for you to help families who struggle each month to pay for their food, housing, and fuel. Bringing down the cost of food would be a big help for many, and it would be good to increase the number of places that provide free food to those who need it, too.
We'd also like to see this country make more fuel-efficient cars, which would help to make the world a greener place.
Many of us are concerned about the security of Israel. We know that some children there can't go to school or even play outside because of fears about rocket attacks. Many Israeli children have lost their families or even their lives. Please help Israel to defend itself, and offer all the support that our country can offer. Make Israelis feel that they are not alone.
We also think America should put pressure on the countries that bomb Israel in order to prevent more attacks. By doing these things, you will encourage the rest of the world to also support Israel. We believe this will help bring peace to everyone.
We wish you success in your upcoming presidency and in furthering world peace by eliminating global terrorism.
Sincerely,
The students of grades 4 & 5, Shaloh House Jewish Day School, Brighton