In recognition of Election Day, Fridley Preschool students learned the importance of voting by casting ballots to select their favorite fruit on November 1, 2021.

Preschool teacher Jaime Finch's 4-year-old scholars participated in a mock election to complete the process of voting and learn the meaning of civic responsibility.  “Each of us has a voice and a choice, and they all matter,” said Finch. “It’s important to promote projects like this with our young scholars because it encourages them to participate, share their thoughts and opinions, and realize that their voice can make a difference.”

As an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, Fridley Preschool promotes agency, where students have active ownership of their own learning, which encourages leadership and independent decision-making skills. 

The mock election allowed preschoolers to connect with the world around them.  “They may hear about voting and elections on television, or their parents may discuss voting,” said Finch. “Participating in this project conceptualizes their understanding, allowing them to feel more prepared and, ultimately, sets them up for success when it’s time to practice their civic duty.”

After all the votes were tallied, apples were elected as the class favorite, while bananas came in second and oranges in third.