In the spirit of election season, Lower School students participated in a division-wide project centered on civic responsibility, the importance of taking action, and how voting can affect change in a community.

In the week leading up to Election Day, classes read Andrea Beaty's Sofia Valdez, Future Prez and other books about civic engagement and ways individuals can make a difference. As part of the division-wide project, Lower School Principal Dr. Sotirhos visited Lower School classes for read-alouds and conversations about active citizenship.

Students were asked to reflect on what it means to be a citizen of RCDS and what ideas they might have to improve their school community.

Lower Schoolers were then asked to write down any issues they would like to see improved at school. A suggestion box outside of Dr. Sotirhos’ office collected their submissions. 

The three key student-proposed issues that made it to the ballot were:

1. Social Time - Find ways to improve recess, choice time, and lunchtime.
2. Time with Older Students - Work on new ideas for partnering with our buddies and students in other divisions.
3. Student Choice - Find ways for students to have more choice and say in Lower School, such as what clubs we offer. 

On Election Day, all classes, from Pre-Kindergarten through fourth grade, made their way to voting booths set up in the hallway of the Main Building to cast their votes for the issue that they thought was most important.

After the votes are tallied by the Lower School administration, the election results will be shared with the division and student-led groups will work together to realize various improvements. 

A wonderful way to learn about civic engagement and voting!