Rio Grande Elementary hosts ‘cookie election’ to support outdoor learning

BELEN — Staff and students at Rio Grande Elementary in Belen had a blast indulging their sweet tooth all while learning about the importance of elections and showcasing how outdoor learning can enhance student engagement.

The cookie election, held Nov. 1, had students vote for their favorite cookie in a school-wide outdoor election which was organized by special education teacher Celina Cordova and her students.

Cordova is part of TOTAL NM’s Outdoor Educator Leadership Program, a six-month initiative to create sustainable outdoor learning opportunities and a statewide framework for outdoor classrooms in New Mexico. The initiative is funded by New Mexico Recreation Division’s Outdoor Equity Fund and Meta’s Community Action Grant.

“In preparation for the cookie election, Cordova’s students took on various responsibilities from designing ballot boxes and signage to hosting preliminary voting rounds for different cookies,” a press release from TOTAl NM’s executive director Allison Martin states. “Through these activities, students learned about the significance of voting, the importance of having a voice and the impact of their choices.”

“The cookie general election was an overall phenomenal experience. Incidentally, Oreo was elected!” wrote Cordova in the release. “Outdoor education is a vital and powerful teaching tool. I am so proud of my students, small but mighty, as they were able to enthusiastically undergo this huge undertaking.”

“If I could vote again, I would change my vote to peanut butter (cookie). Voting makes sure everyone gets what they want,” said Elijah, a second-grader at Rio Grande Elementary.

During his visit to the cookie election, Superintendent Lawrence Sanchez shared his support for outdoor learning and said he hopes it inspires other educators to embrace outdoor learning initiatives.

“The cookie election highlighted how outdoor learning can enrich any project or subject area, demonstrating its versatility and potential to foster advocacy and community involvement,” said Martin.

“It also highlighted student leadership and connection to current-day events. Huge congratulations to Celina and her students for making this unique event a success and for inspiring others by sharing their journey and resources.”