As voters across the United States participated in the 2024 presidential and local elections, Moriches Elementary School engaged its students in a unique election of their own. The school organized an activity where students voted to decide which Disney characters Principal Deirdre Redding and Assistant Principal Nikki Stallone would dress as for the day following Election Day. The options were Angel and Stitch from "Lilo and Stitch" or Mike and Sulley from "Monsters Inc."
The event aimed to educate students about the voting process and its significance. On the Monday before Election Day, students visited Pod 1, decorated with patriotic themes, to cast their votes. Faculty and staff endeavored to replicate a real electoral experience by having students sign in at the front desk before heading to one of several poll boxes in the room. After voting, each student received an “I Voted” sticker as they awaited the results.
After a break on Election Day, students returned to find Mrs. Redding and Mrs. Stallone dressed as Angel and Stitch on the school roof. The characters from "Lilo and Stitch" won with a final tally of 501-315 votes. Students expressed excitement upon seeing their principal and assistant principal in costume on Wednesday morning.
“The hands-on experience helped our students understand the importance of making decisions through voting while learning about fairness, responsibility, and civic participation,” said Mrs. Redding. “It was a fun way for our students to understand the power of voting and the importance of respecting others’ opinions.” She also thanked teachers and the PTO for contributing to the success of this activity.
Mrs. Redding appeared as Angel while Mrs. Stallone took on the role of Stitch from "Lilo and Stitch."