Candidates respond to 5th and 6th graders' Power of the Vote Rally, Nov. 3 at Horace Mann School

Horace Mann students invited local and statewide candidates, and response so far has been strong. The non-partisan, educational event is open to parents/guardians and the public. The candidates will address why it is important to vote. Students will share their views about the power of voting and will lead songs. Attendance is expected to exceed 200 people. The following candidates have agreed to participate: U.S. Rep. Betty McCollum, Minnesota Rep. Erin Murphy, Minnesota House Candidate Meg Ferber, Minnesota House Candidate Emory Diveley, a representative from U.S. Senate Candidate Dean Barkley, Minnesota Sen. Richard Cohen, City Council Member Lee Helgen, Ramsey County Judicial Candidate Howard Orenstein, Saint Paul Federation of Teachers President Mary Cathryn Ricker and others.

According to Horace Mann School sixth grade student Sophie Gunderson, "We are putting the rally on so parents and adults will know more about why it is important to vote. We realized small actions can have far reaching results."

"These kids are so excited to share what they have learned about the voting process and get their parents and other adults excited about going to the voting booths." said teacher Judy Ronnei.

Horace Mann School is a K-6 elementary school in St. Paul's Highland Park community. It is a learning community where high expectations for every child are nurtured in a caring and supportive environment -- the school is highly respected for its exceptional teaching staff, its diversity, the gifted and talented program, high test scores, and academic enrichment opportunities. Horace Mann is a friendly, caring, and safe environment for learning and enjoys the enthusiastic support of committed families who participate in a myriad of volunteer activities on behalf of the school.

To learn more about Horace Mann School, go to www.mann.spps.org or call 651-293-8965.