As Americans head to the polls on Tuesday, November 5, Washington Elementary School is ensuring its students experience the spirit of Election Day in a unique and memorable way – students are learning the importance of civic engagement through an interactive voting experience.
Brianne Mull Delaney, Instructional Coach, inspired by her own third-grade memory of voting in a refrigerator box at Hamilton Elementary, hopes this activity will leave a lasting impression on the students. “If we can make a lasting impact on our students’ enthusiasm for civic engagement, let’s take that opportunity,” Delaney explained. With the collaboration of the speech and language team, Delaney developed a student-led voting initiative focused on giving students a say in their school community.
The mock election will let students cast votes for a fun incentive day, with options like Crazy Hat Day, Dress a Teacher Day, or Sports Team Day. This reward ties into Washington’s “Strive for 95” attendance initiative, which celebrates students meeting their 95% attendance goal over 30 consecutive days.
Principal Patrick Muench emphasized the importance of giving students an accessible, early experience with voting. “This opportunity shows them the power they have in their voice,” Muench said. “It’s a way for us to teach them about a complex civic duty in a simple, memorable way.” To encourage family engagement, students will also bring home a QR code that parents and caregivers can scan to find their own polling places, bridging school and home in the spirit of Election Day.
As the day concludes, votes will be tallied, and results announced, giving students a glimpse into the process and patience often associated with election outcomes. Delaney and Muench hope this will serve as a lasting lesson, fostering a positive association with civic engagement that students will carry into adulthood.
“We want students to know that they have a voice in their future, and it’s important to use that voice to envision the future they see for them and their families,” Delaney shared. By encouraging participation now, Washington Elementary aims to instill the excitement of civic duty in students and their families alike.”
For more photos of their Election day, visit our Facebook. For more information about checking your polling place, voter registration and more, click here.