This November, a new generation of Americans have their first opportunity to cast their presidential vote. Tuesday September 17, on National Voter Registration Day, eligible 17 and 18 year-old AHS pupils volunteered to register to vote in government class, taught by Holly Esbeck. Registering to vote has many benefits for young voters, and gives all voters a chance to have their voice heard. Studies show that students who report being encouraged to vote or taught how to register in high school are more likely to vote and be more invested in elections. Last year, Mrs. Esbeck helped register at least 70% of eligible students and received a commemorative banner recognizing that achievement. This year, Esbeck aims to register 90% of eligible students.
The following is a press release provided from Senator Paul D. Pete– “Each school that registers at least 90 percent of their eligible students by March 22 will receive the 2023-2024 Carrie Chapman Catt Award, named after the Iowan who was a national leader in the women’s suffrage movement. Schools that register at least 50 percent and 70 percent of eligible students will also receive statewide recognition.“It’s important for every eligible Iowan to vote, and young people are a major part of that,” said Secretary Pate. “Young people in Iowa are becoming more and more engaged in Iowa’s election processes. Registering students to vote is a big step in keeping up that momentum. Since the creation of the Catt Award, thousands of students have registered to vote, and we look forward to seeing voter turnout in upcoming elections reflect that.” State law allows 17-year-olds to register to vote in Iowa. They can also participate in primary elections if they will be 18 years old in time for the general election. Secretary Pate will conduct a formal trophy presentation at each school that registers at least 90 percent of eligible students. The Catt Award was launched in 2019. Over the 2022-2023 school year, 19 schools were recognized for registering 90 percent of eligible students to vote.”
This year, AHS encourages students to register as a voter, to fulfill their civic duty, and to make informed decisions about the upcoming election.