Democracy in action for middle school students

One of the important lessons that accompanied the mock election was about voter etiquette, and the students gained some best practices, such as learning how to be a good citizen and voter. Therefore, the students’ were able to feel safe and supported during the entire process. They learned to not share their choices with peers unless they established consent to do so. They gained one another’s respect and overall acted with reserve as they understood that each person’s vote is their personal choice, and that is OK.

Prior to the election, the students were able to use the San Mateo Daily Journal newspaper for understanding. Each student receives a Daily Journal every Monday! Importantly, the mock election opened up conversation among the students’ and their families. Here are some takeaways that the students wrote at the end of the mock election experience:

“I learned how to do proper research before making my decision.” — Lillie, first period/seventh grade.

“When we had to research about the different propositions, I talked to my parents about it. It felt cool to know what is being voted on in California.” — Abigail, second period/seventh grade.

“When I heard our class was doing a mock election I was joyed because it made me feel included. This past week I’ve been learning about voting, so this inspired me to vote when I turn into an adult.” — Nakaila, second period/seventh grade.

“I am glad I got to understand and know everything a real voter knows.” — Olive, third period/seventh grade.

“My mock election experience was very interesting for it being my first time doing a mock election … I feel like it was important for me to vote in the mock election because a voice needed to be heard, for this important opportunity.” — Marina, third period/seventh grade.

“Since the mock election and the real election I have started to appreciate the quote, ‘every vote matters’ because every vote does matter.” — Lauren, third period/seventh grade.

“It was a safe space … . The best part was getting a handshake and a sticker from Mr. Spina.” — Lizzy, fourth period/seventh grade.

“The process of the mock election was interesting, and definitely simpler than I had expected. Although preparing to vote and researching took a while, filling out the ballot was quick and easy.” — Audrey, fourth period/seventh grade.

“My mock election experience was okay. It allowed me to know how to vote and how to study all the propositions and candidates — and know which one I wish to vote for … I chose to vote to make a difference.” — Puck, fifth period/eighth grade.

“My mock election experience was a great one. It was because it was interesting to see our class results compared to the real results. I think our class put in a lot of effort into studying the propositions and candidates, and I agree with most of the results.” — Sabrina, fifth period/eighth grade.

“My mock election experience was relaxing. I chose what I chose because I thought I made the choices that I think represent me.” — Damian, seventh period/eighth grade.

“My experience with the class mock election wasn’t too bad. Although I didn’t share my vote, it was a good and interesting experience. I was able to learn a lot of things about voting that I didn’t already know … I will actually want to vote next time we do it. But yeah that’s pretty much all I have to say, it was good and I would want to do it even if it’s just another mock election.” — Melissa, seventh period/eighth grade.

Joe Spina teaches seventh and eighth grade social studies at Bayside Academy in San Mateo.