We had an election at Ladera del Norte this week.
With Election Day coming up on November 4, this was the perfect time for our students to learn more about what voting means and how our democracy works.
Ms. Andra Stradling, Board Secretary for District 2 in Farmington, visited our Hornets to talk about how people run for office, what inspired her to serve on the FMS Board of Education, and the important role the Board plays in supporting our schools.
“My job is to make decisions that are best for students and to represent our teachers and staff. I also help the district manage millions of dollars that support our schools, including buying books and building new classrooms,” she shared with our 4th graders.
Ms. Stradling explained that every election begins with an interest in serving others, but candidates also need to study the issues, research solutions, talk with the community, share their ideas, and then wait for the results on Election Day. If elected, they must work together with others to make progress for students and families.
To help students understand how voting makes a difference, Ms. Stradling led a fun and delicious mock election between two candidates: Candidate Oreo and Candidate Chocolate Chip. Students lined up at the polls, cast their ballots, and waited eagerly to learn which treat would win.
Our fourth-grade teachers helped count the votes and complete the canvassing process. When the results were announced, the winning team celebrated with big cheers, and the voice of the fourth-grade students was heard.
We want to thank Board Secretary Stradling for visiting with our students, but also for reading to our Kindergarten students at Mesa Verde later that day.
A big thank you to Ms. Erika Johanson, Ms. Amy Jordan, Ms. Stacy Maxwell, and Ms. Vickie Waipa for welcoming us into their classrooms and creating such an engaging civic learning experience. Ms. Johanson joined the FMS family in January 2020, Ms. Jordan in September 2016, Ms. Maxwell in August 2021, and Ms. Waipa in August 2008.
Go Hornets! FMS, remember to vote on November 4!