As she looked ahead to the inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden, Post Falls resident Madison Boyer had three things on her mind.

“We want everyone to be safe, smart and not out of control,” she said Monday.

The sentiment was a common one. Greta Boyer, Madison’s mom, said she feels nervous about what the next four years might bring if people from across the political spectrum are unable to communicate in good faith.

“I hope people take a breath, step back and listen to one another,” she said. “We can’t progress if we can’t hear each other.”

Mike Cheshire of Hayden said he’s optimistic about the incoming administration.

“I hope the day brings a peaceful transition,” he said.

He said he hopes not to see a repeat of the chaos that erupted in the nation’s capitol on Jan. 6. Five people died during the riot, including a police officer, while dozens more were injured.

“With the National Guard in place, I’m not too concerned about anything,” Cheshire said.

Unrest around the nation has also led to heightened security measures closer to home.

The Idaho Statesman reported that four Boise schools will have a closed campus today and Wednesday, meaning students will not be permitted to leave during school hours without approval. Parents can also choose to keep their students home.

The Boise School District’s announcement came after an FBI bulletin that warned of armed protests at all 50 state capitols, according to The Associated Press.

Greta Boyer said she felt the events of Jan. 6 reflected poorly on the United States.

“We don’t look good,” she said. “It doesn’t get either side anywhere to tear things down.”

She said she hopes the country can redeem itself with a safe and peaceful inauguration Wednesday.

“I would hate to see any lives end,” she said.

Though she expressed concern for how the United States of America appears to the citizens of other countries, she said what matters most is the example Americans set in their own communities.

“Remember — our kids are watching what we do,” she said.