Max Shadow | 08.04.2024
West Orange High School is taking a proactive stance in promoting civic engagement among its students and recent graduates. The school has launched a voter registration awareness campaign targeting all current and former students who will be eligible to vote in the upcoming election on November 5, 2024.
"Our goal is to empower our students to become active participants in our democracy. By registering to vote, they take the first step in making their voices heard and shaping the future of our community and nation." West Orange High School Principal, Oscar Guerrero
The campaign has a dual focus. First, it aims to reach all students who are or will turn 18 by Election Day 2024. Second, it ensures that college-bound students are properly set up with absentee ballot registration before they leave for school.
This initiative builds upon the strong foundation of civic education provided by the West Orange School District. Throughout their academic journey, students learn about government structures, the electoral process, and the importance of civic participation. This campaign serves as a practical application of these lessons, bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world civic engagement.
The importance of this effort cannot be overstated. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, only 51.4% of eligible 18-24 year-olds were registered to vote in 2020. Even more concerning, only 45% of this age group actually cast ballots in that election. By contrast, 76% of citizens 65 and older voted.
These statistics highlight a significant opportunity to increase youth participation in the democratic process. Research shows that individuals who register and vote at a young age are more likely to become lifelong voters. By focusing on new and soon-to-be voters, West Orange High School is helping to cultivate a generation of engaged citizens.
The school is making the registration process as accessible as possible. Students and alumni can visit www.woboe.org/vote to register and access additional information about the voting process, including details on absentee voting for those attending college out of state.
As Election Day 2024 approaches, West Orange High School's voter registration campaign stands as a model for how educational institutions can play a vital role in strengthening our democracy, one young voter at a time.
