Hawthorn students watch history

The students in Karen Oliver's second grade class were getting a little fidgety moments before Barack Obama took the oath of office.

What wasn't clear is whether the Hawthorn Elementary North students were more excited about history in the making or their upcoming lunch period. The dawn of a new era can get lost on 7-year-olds.

The Vernon Hills students along with kids across the nation took a break from class to view the inauguration on television. "This is an emotional moment," Oliver reminded them. "It's a time when we all feel patriotic," she added.

Only vaguely aware of the economic crisis and Middle East wars, Oliver's students did have some advice for the new leader on other pressing matters.

When asked what President Obama can do to help the country, a few of the students had specific ideas, while others were more ideological.

"I think President Obama should do the fair thing," said Rinkey Shah. She didn't elaborate on the details.

A little unclear on the branches of government, Gabriel Bowman said, "The president should make a new law."

Showing his concern for the environment, Kuba Stefanik offered Obama some simple advice. "Don't throw trash on the ground," he said.