K-12 Learning Opportunity: Election 2013
Students experience civics in action

Charlotte-area students have the opportunity to experience Election 2013 and civics in action through the Kids Voting mock election, a program of GenerationNation. This is the 21st year GenerationNation (formerly known as Kids Voting Mecklenburg) has offered the non-partisan educational program in Charlotte. Over 32,000 students participated in Election 2011 activities, and 100,000 in Election 2012.

 

On the student ballot

In this year's mock election, students study the candidates and issues and cast their own ballots for mayor, school board, and other races. They'll also weigh in on the CMS education bond and in a student referendum about civic issues: the Charlotte airport and voter identification. Results of the student election are counted and announced after voting ends on November 5.

 

How to participate

The mock vote is being offered through schools, youth programs and online October 22 through November 5, and at designated polling places on November 1, November 2, and November 5. All K-12 students are invited to participate. Learn more 

 

Student candidate guide 

A new tool will help students and voters get ready for election 2013. The student-created candidate guide includes information about local government and the candidates running for office in Charlotte, Cornelius, Davidson, Huntersville, Matthews, Mint Hill, and Pineville, plus school board districts 1-6 and the CMS bonds. In surveying the candidates, youth took a different approach in hopes to increase civic literacy and civic participation in local government while decreasing the "politics". View the student candidate guide   

 

Youth council Q and A with Patrick Cannon and Edwin Peacock (video)  

High school students questioned Charlotte mayoral candidates Patrick Cannon and Edwin Peacock about a wide range of topics including job creation, Eastland Mall, education, taxes, business incentives, transportation and more. The forum was hosted by members of Youth Leadership Alliance, the new youth council for Charlotte-Mecklenburg. The council is a program of GenerationNation in partnership with the City of Charlotte, Mecklenburg County and CMS.  

 

Educational tools help students to read, think, and decide in Election 2013  

A great learning opportunity for all grades! K-12 students read, analyze, and think critically about information, make decisions, and gain knowledge about and experience the election process, local government, democracy, and more. Suggested alignment to Common Core and NC Essential Standards  is included. 

 

 

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GenerationNation educates and engages K-12 students to lead.
Smart, fun, innovative programs tied to Common Core and other educational goals connect classroom learning with real-life experiences to help students build civic literacy and leadership from an early age. GenerationNation is home of K-12 civic education, Kids Voting, Youth Civics 101, Youth Voice/Youth Press Corps, Youth Leadership Alliance and other educational initiatives.