Vaughan elementary school student gets to be mayor of the city for a day

Students from Grades 5 to 8 were invited to submit two ideas to help innovate city

Yorkregion.com
July 4, 2023
Brian Capitao

You’ve probably heard of police chief for a day, but how about mayor for a day?

The City of Vaughan held a contest for students in Grades 5 to 8, where students were tasked with providing two ideas on how to improve their city before the deadline in May.

After a selection panel reviewed all submissions, student Allegra S. was chosen based on her ideas to move Vaughan forward, which included transit enhancement and more affordable housing.

This is the first time the City of Vaughan has introduced the program. Winner Allegra S. got the opportunity to accompany the mayor to his morning meetings and then received a behind-the-scenes tour of city hall.

“I was honoured to spend the day with such a forward-thinking and remarkable resident. Young people are creative, intelligent and truly care about what happens in our city,” said Vaughan
Mayor Steven Del Duca in a press release.

“After spending the day with Allegra at City Hall, I am more certain than ever that Vaughan’s future is in good hands,” continued Del Duca.

Allegra’s winning submission discussed how public transit options and routes would benefit Vaughan. Her gridlock solution would help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve the natural environment.

The “Mayor for a Day” contest was intended to build on what students are learning about municipal governments in their studies.