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Stonehurst Hills principal showcases student ‘Voting Day’ to teach civic participation
Summary
Stonehurst Hills Elementary described an annual 'Voting Day' where fifth-graders campaign, give speeches and vote for student council, a hands-on exercise administrators said builds leadership and civic awareness.
Stonehurst Hills Elementary principal Desmond Chisholm described an in-school civic-education exercise called "Voting Day" at the Upper Darby School District board meeting, where fifth-grade candidates campaign, deliver speeches and students cast ballots.
"Voting day at Stonehurst...is designed to help our students learn how to participate in the democratic process," Chisholm said, explaining that candidates campaign, practice addressing crowds and then vote in booths that mimic a real election.
Students described preparing posters, giving speeches to homerooms and participating in voting booths. One student said candidates were proud to campaign and the entire student body had a chance to see candidate platforms before voting.
Chisholm and staff said the exercise introduces leadership skills, public speaking and responsibility. The principal noted that early exposure helped students "find their voice" between first and fifth grade and praised his fifth-grade team for organizing the activity.
The presentation included examples of student council projects such as organizing a food drive, and the principal said the experience emphasizes respect for election outcomes and participation.
The board thanked school leaders for the presentation; no board action followed.
