Run a Mock Election

Mock elections are important. Beyond civics lessons, mock elections help to instill the habit of voting in young people. When students learn about the political process and participate in real-life voting experiences, they gain the skills and confidence to be active citizens as adults. Research has confirmed the impact of mock election programs on voting patterns and civic participation. Communities that participate in mock election programs have a voting rate for registered 18 year olds that is 14% higher than those that do not (according to a study done in Kansas).

Vermont Votes for Kids Mock Elections can be held on Election Day at the town polling place or at your school.  Whenever possible we recommend that mock elections be held at the polling place.  Students who have an authentic voting experience are more likely to vote once they turn 18.  In addition, when mock elections are held at the polling place, there is a higher turnout among adults - as students bring their parents along with them to vote.  The challenge of conducting a mock election at the polling place is coordinating the mock election with the election officials.

Choose the mock election that works best for your school!

VIEW THE 2006 MOCK ELECTION RESULTS! (Excel spreadsheet)

Hold a Mock Election at the Polling Place 

Hold a Mock Election at Your School 

Order/Download Materials (posters, registration cards, ballots, stickers)