Mike Maltais, Staff writer
QUAD CITIES – In one of the most controversial and contentious presidential elections in modern history, Washington state school students have an opportunity to cast votes for candidates and ballot measures in the 2020 Student Mock Election now available through the Office of the Secretary of State through Nov. 3.
A media release from the Office of the Secretary of State said ballots, along with corresponding tabulation sheets and Voters’ Pamphlets, are available for download and printing at sos.wa.gov/mockelection. Students read candidate statements and arguments for and against races, measures, and issues that may be relevant to their daily lives.
“The Student Mock Election offers teachers resources and tools that empower kids to become more informed and involved citizens,” said Lori Augino, director of elections, Office of the Secretary of State. “Giving students the opportunity to learn about elections in a hands-on, interactive way is an important step in helping them make civic engagement a lifelong habit.”
Other free resources include “I Voted” stickers (order by Oct. 30) and the revamped curriculum book Teaching Elections in Washington State. The lessons meet state and common-core standards and satisfy the civics coursework required for graduation. Classroom-based assessments are included with each lesson.
Last July, legislation went into effect that allows 16- and 17-year-old Washington citizens to sign up as “future voters” and be automatically registered to vote when they turn 18. More information about the Future Voter program, including qualifications and how to register, is available online at www.sos.wa.gov/elections/future-voter-program.aspx.
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