With each election cycle, the focus on engaging young voters grows stronger, underscoring the important role younger generations play in shaping our country’s future. Youth who learn to vote in high school are more likely to be informed and engaged voters in the future. Recognizing this, some states have enacted laws requiring high schools to play an active role in registering young voters. This organization not only seeks to empower students but also instills a sense of responsibility and community service from an early age.
When states include new voters
In Texas, for example, the law requires high schools to provide voter registration to eligible students twice a year. Colorado, on the other hand, encourages schools to participate in peer-to-peer voter registration, giving the Eliza Pickrell Routt Award to schools that do well in voter registration. This not only encourages a spirit of community engagement but also rewards schools for their community contributions.
Here is a list of counties where voter registration activities are required in schools. Is your status listed?
States are required to engage young voters:
- Alaska
- Arkansas
- California
- In Colorado
- Connecticut
- Georgia
- In Hawaii
- Idaho
- Iowa
- in Kentucky
- Maine
- Massachusetts
- In Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- New York
- In Ohio
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Washington
- West Virginia
Challenges in engaging young voters
Despite efforts being made in Texas, for example, compliance with minority voter engagement varies widely, with only a quarter of schools meeting the requirement. This gap highlights a missed opportunity to encourage voting habits among young citizens. Additionally, college students fresh out of high school still feel disconnected from the political process. Groups like The Civics Center estimate that while 50% of US youth have access to pre-registration by age 16, only 30% of 18-year-olds are registered to vote.
What can teachers and schools do to help?
Teachers and administrators are uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between young people and the ballot box. Here are a few ways teachers can promote the culture of voting.
1. Raise awareness
Many young people do not know that they can register to vote before they turn 18. Teachers can play an important role in raising awareness about pre-registration and its benefits.
2. Support your student voters
Empower students to lead voter registration campaigns by providing resources and guidance. This hands-on approach can make the process more relevant and impactful.
3. Go all in for public education
Teach the presidential election process! Embed discussions about democracy and voting rights into the curriculum. This helps students understand the weight of their votes and election materials.
4. Bring public services
Contact local organizations like The Civics Center for access to training and materials for planning school-wide voter registration events.
Teachers are not only teachers of the curriculum but also mentors of future leaders and informed citizens. By fostering an environment that supports and encourages voter participation, you help ensure that new voices are not only heard but have an impact in shaping the future of our communities and our nation. By taking immediate action today, we can cultivate a generation that values ​​and actively participates in our democracy, ensuring a brighter, more inclusive future for everyone.
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