Perkins 3rd Grade Has Its Own Elected Officials

By JENNA RHUDE

Moapa Valley Progress

Democracy at its most basic was present at Ute V. Perkins Elementary School last month. Lana Hess’ third grade class was presented with a unique opportunity in the first week’s of school: to choose their class leadership.

Hess said the reason that she wants the kids to choose their own “presidency” is simple. “If they choose who they want to be in these positions, the kids have ownership within their class,” she said.

It began with the students running for office. There were 11 students who ran for different leadership positions within the class.
“This year was amazing,” Hess said. “There were so many kids who wanted to participate in our class government.”

Each of the students prepared a campaign. They all had a chance to prepare and give a campaign speech about what they could and would accomplish while in office. Posters were hung in the classroom encouraging the vote for each candidate. There were also balloons and treats provided by the candidates.

The time came, parents gathered and the candidates gave their final plea to their classmates as to why they should be chosen. A secret ballot was then cast.

Hess found it important to treat this class election much like an official election in which students someday will be asked to participate. She wanted the kids to know how the system works and that it can work for them.

After the ballots were cast, winners were announced.

The Class President chosen was Lily Mae Moncreif. Her duties include: making sure that free time is monitored, being in charge of class meetings and always being available to help others.

The vice presidency went to Jackson Frederick. Jackson’s duties will include: making sure the chromebooks are well cared for and charging properly each night. He is also in charge of the lunch count.

The final elected position was earned by Chad Leavitt. Chad was elected to the position of the Sergeant of Arms. He is responsible for the “X Box.” No, its not a gaming system. It’s a literal box on the white board where recess time is controlled. Leavitt also is in charge of moving the behavior clips for the students, that way the class is not disrupted.

“Overall it was a very good experience for all the kids,” said Hess. “They learned the process of an election and they are now accountable for the officers they have put in these positions.”