Earlier this week, a group of Eastside Montessori students anxiously took turns casting ballots endorsing their preferred candidate for president.
Just like in a normal election, the students waited in line before receiving their ballots, then filled in their decision and submitted it to be counted.
The students have spent the better part of the school year assessing the candidates, creating charts and diagrams outlining their stances on various political issues with their teachers, who helped to get the students excited about the right they will have to vote when they come of age.
In an election season that has been anything but positive, it was a breath of fresh air to see these youngsters so excited about the freedom they have as Americans to not only express their views, but use them to make an impact.
I think the sector of the population that is old enough to legally cast ballots can learn a lot from these charismatic elementary schoolers, and not just an appreciation for democracy.
The constant mudslinging that has filled social media feeds, letters to the editor, television news broadcasts, blogs and political advertising is no new phenomenon. It’s pretty standard for things to heat up this time of year. Once they throw their hats in the ring, no politicians are out of the line of fire.
However, I think everyone can agree that this election season has been exceptionally dramatic. Many assert that there are no good options, and a sad number of undecided voters have expressed that they will not vote this year.
To be honest, I’ve put myself in the latter category, so unsure of what the lesser of evils is that I wondered if I should even bother.
Then, seeing the enthusiasm our community’s children have about their right to imitate the right to vote reminded me of the importance of taking advantage of the opportunity so many have fought to preserve.
Although many of us may have tossed up our hands displeased by our options for our nation’s next leader, the fact of the matter is that we are where we are.
If you listen to mainstream media, we’re faced with the choice between an accused criminal and a misogynist.
As much as it pains me to say it, these are our options, and barring a huge upset by a third party candidate, one of these two will be the next president of the United States.
So it’s time we go back to basics, just like the students at Eastside Elementary.
Those of us in that undecided category have less than a week to make up our minds, or else forfeit our right to weigh in, so I would encourage you to follow the lead of the local youth.
Make your pro/con list. Outline the issues that matter to you and see how your beliefs align with the candidates on the ballot. Perhaps that means you won’t vote based on your political affiliation. Maybe you will cast your ballot for a third party candidate. What matters is that you take advantage of your right and get out and vote.
Thanks to the students at Eastside Elementary for reminding us how important it is that we do not take this right for granted. Tuesday morning, I hope to be anxiously awaiting my turn to vote just like you.

Ambrosia Neldon is the general manager at Leader Publications. She can be reached by phone at (269) 687-7713, or by email at ambrosia.neldon@leaderpub.com.