John R. King 3rd-8th Grade Students Participate in Election Day to Exercise Their Right to Vote

On Election Day, John R. King School gave students in grades 3 through 8 a unique opportunity to experience democracy in action. As part of a hands-on learning initiative, the school organized a mock election where students could exercise their right to vote, giving them a deeper understanding of the democratic process and its importance in society.

The event was designed to mirror the actual voting process in the United States, allowing students to engage in a meaningful way with the concept of elections. Teachers and staff guided students through the steps of the voting process, from reviewing candidates and issues to casting their ballots and participating in a class discussion about the outcomes.

"Voting is a fundamental part of being an active citizen, and it's important that our students not only learn about the electoral system but experience it firsthand," said Mrs. Young-Neal, a social studies teacher at John R. King. "This mock election gives them a chance to make their voices heard."

On Election Day, students lined up in the school’s mock polling station, where they were handed ballots and given privacy to make their selections, just as they would in a real election. The process was designed to mirror the official voting system as much as possible. Students placed their completed ballots into a ballot box, reinforcing the importance of confidentiality and respect for the process.

“We wanted to make sure that students understood the significance of their vote and how elections work,” said Principal Spencer. “By allowing them to participate in the voting process themselves, we are giving them a sense of agency and empowering them to understand the impact their voices can have.”

The success of the Election Day event has sparked excitement about future opportunities for student engagement in civic life at John R. King School. Teachers are already planning additional activities that will help students continue to explore democracy, including debates, mock town hall meetings, and opportunities for students to take on leadership roles within the school.

By giving students the chance to actively participate in the election process, John R. King is helping to cultivate a generation of informed and engaged young people who will one day go on to shape the future of their communities and the nation.

As the students walked out of school, many of them were already thinking ahead to the next big event in their civic education—when they’ll finally be able to cast their real ballots in an election of their own. Until then, their Election Day experience will remain a valuable lesson about the power of their voices in a democratic society.