PROVIDENCE, RI - Secretary of State Nellie M. Gorbea is collaborating with the National Student/Parent Mock Election Program to hold mock Presidential Elections at schools across Rhode Island in an effort to educate youth about this important civic duty. Students have the opportunity to cast a paper ballot in symbolic support of their preferred candidate using the state's new voting equipment.
"We are working hard to empower and engage all Rhode Islanders, and that includes those who aren't old enough to vote in the election," Gorbea said. "This is a great opportunity for our youth to learn about civics and voting, and become active voters once they turn 18."
Schools hosting mock elections include Sophia Academy in Providence, Lincoln High School, West Warwick High School, Birchwood Middle School in North Providence, North Kingstown High School and St. Michael's School in Newport.
All Rhode Island students are also encouraged to participate in the National Student/Parent Mock Election by registering and voting online at nationalmockelection.org. Voting begins today and continues through November 3, National Mock Election Day.
Interested educators can find comprehensive program information and teacher guides at nationalmockelection.org . The guides, updated for 2016, offer discussion points on the issues of Democracy, Immigration, the Economy, and Liberty and Justice For All. The curriculum also offers special emphasis on civil discourse.
Sixty national civic, educational, religious, and business organizations serve as cooperating organizations and partners, including the National Association of Broadcasters Education Foundation and the PTA. In addition, the National Association of Elementary School Principals and the National Association of Secondary School Principals are also supporting the mock election project.
To participate, register online at nationalmockelection.org. For more information, contact Gloria Kirshner, president of National Student/Parent Mock Election, by email at nspme@aol.com.
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Media contact: Nicole Lagace nlagace@sos.ri.gov (401) 330-3180