“The ignorance of one voter in a democracy impairs the security of all.”- John F. Kennedy.
If you are a senior who will be 18 or older prior to the Nov. 5 election, it is very important that you register to vote this year. Voting is important because it gives people a say in how the government is run. By voting, individuals can influence decisions on policies, laws and leadership that affect their daily lives. It’s a way to make sure that their voices are heard and to participate in the democratic process. Plus, it helps ensure that elected officials represent the interests and values of the community.
“Our system of government is a Constitutional Republic. In order for it to work best a majority of the public needs to vote. Many of the issues we see today are due to the few people voting. Elected officials cater to those that vote,” said History & Civics Club sponsor Rebecca Stoltzfus.
In an effort to encourage students to vote, History & Civics Club members are helping students register to vote during lunches on Wednesdays.
“Students need to know either their drivers license number or their State ID number (which they can get for $9 at the BMV),” Stoltzfus said. “They can register online at https://indianavoters.in.gov/. It is pretty easy!”
This year, KHS students have the opportunity to work the polls on election day. Typically, workers have to be 18 or older, but because of the anticipated number of voters in November, the age has been lowered to 16. The program is called the Great Hall Pass.
“You have to be approved by the principal and have a GPA of 3.0 or higher since you are missing school,” Stoltzfus said.
Teacher Heather Leavitt is spearheading the Great Hall Pass. Sign ups are first come, first served, depending on how many workers the Howard County Election Board needs.
“Students get to see the election process first hand and know that they are helping our democratic process. They get to miss a day of school and earn $155,” Stoltzfus said.
For Stoltzfus, the choice to vote is a no-brainer.
“I always tell my students that if you don’t vote, you don’t exist. The elected officials have to make decisions about scarce resources. Those resources are usually allocated to the people that tend to vote,” she said. “There is a reason why Social Security and Medicare are usually fully funded. The average voter is retirement age or older. If we want better-funded daycare, help with tuition, and nicer State and national parks and schools, then younger votes need to start showing up!”
