T.F. North Students March To The Polls On Halloween

CALUMET CITY, IL — School and community leaders headed an effort to allow students and staff members at T.F. North High School in Calumet City to vote early during the school day on Halloween. Several groups left class early, around noon, and walked from the school to cast their ballots at the Calumet City Library.

“Voting is important because it helps you get a better community. It helps to get a good leader. I’m excited to vote because I would like to give a different person a chance,” T.F. North senior Ailani Fonseca said.

The "Parade to the Polls" was coordinated by T.F. North teacher Emily Biegel and T.F. District 215 school board member LeAnn Revis.

Look at our new voters!!! 65% of them Indicated that they would not have voted in the absence of this school sponsored event! #schoolsmustlead #TFNvotes #TeamPhenomenal215
— LeeAnn Revis (@LeeannRevis) October 31, 2018

“Historically, the 18-24-year-old age group has had the lowest participation rates among voters. I believe that schools can play a pivotal role in changing that outcome. By providing some support and encouragement, schools can help to remove the obstacles to voting and also demystify the otherwise intimidating process of casting one's ballot,” Revis said.

Biegel said it's "critical" to get as many people as possible to be part of the voting process.

"Helping the students get to the polls is the next logical step and a great way to encourage them to be lifelong voters,” she said.

#TFNVOTES pic.twitter.com/11S44rNGXh
— ClerkCalCity (@CalCityClerk) October 31, 2018

Photo provided by Emily Biegel