Upper School Experiences Democratic Process with Student-Government Elections

With a total of 154 votes cast, ninth-grader Capone Andrade of Bridgeport was named President. He will be aided in his duties by ninth-grade representatives including: Celia Baliotti of New Canaan, Drew Burr of New Canaan and Jonathan Gavidia of Norwalk; eighth-grade representatives; Jayne Visokey of Stamford, Michael Bria of Wilton, Nico Bennett of New Canaan and seventh-grade representatives Sam Peake of New Canaan and Miles Chandor of Pound Ridge.

Many students advertised their candidacy using colorful poster boards as well as creative and eye-catching tactics throughout the Upper School’s Stevens Building. 

“I used Post-it Notes again this year,” said Capone Andrade, a reference to last years’ marketing gaffe in which he memorably arrived at school the morning of the 2021 elections empty-handed to discover a slew of posters touting the other candidates. Grabbing all of the Post-It Note pads available, he wrote his name on each tiny slip and posted them throughout the Upper School building. While they were Lilliputian in comparison, they were undeniably eye-catching. Following a speech in which he authentically if not charmingly addressed the incident, he won a seat as an eighth-grade representative. “It worked for me last year, so I did not see any reason to change my tactics,” he said, following his 2022 win.

All candidates made stump speeches. In hers, Celia Baliotti made the case that she should be elected to ensure that “everyone would have a fair say.” She promised to uphold principles of fairness and transparency on behalf of her classmates, if chosen. Drew Burr and Jonathan Gavidia each emphasized their long tenures (10 and 11 years, respectively) as proof of ample experience and knowledge of the Pre-K through Grade 9 school. 

“Turnout was strong,” acknowledged Head of Upper School Karl Palmgren. “I was pleased to see the level of interest the students showed in this leadership opportunity. Campaign speeches were well written and delivered with the poise and confidence we have come to expect from Country School students. All candidates should be proud of the bravery and courage they showed during this process.”

The 2022-23 Student Government will convene weekly to discuss issues important to Upper School students, present their ideas and lobby the faculty and administration for support and implementation.