Second- and third-grade students at Summit Academy School – Cincinnati didn’t just adopt a cow; they helped it rise to fame. Through the Dairy Excellence Foundation’s Adopt a Cow program, the students were paired with a cow named Elsa, raised by Iowa farmer Megan Kregel.
Elsa, a nominee and eventual winner of the America’s Favorite Calf competition, has become a regular subject of discussion and projects for the students. As part of the program, the students receive updates about Elsa through videos and pictures. They also have learned about the election process through their engagement with Elsa.
“They created campaign posters to place throughout the school and told other students and teachers why they should vote for Elsa in the competition,” explains teacher Adrian Kohlman. “On election day, each student placed their vote and received an ‘I voted’ sticker.”
Their efforts paid off.
“Because of their hard work and dedication, Elsa won first-place out over 80 cows and is being sent a care package,” says Kohlman. “We were so excited that you could 
hear our cheers throughout the school.”
Hosted by Discover Dairy, the election was held November 3-5, in tandem with regular elections. Summit Academy School – Cincinnati students joined others across the country who also participated in the program.