What is Mock Election?

Mock Election is a civic education program that addresses voter education and attitudes by working with young people through the schools. Over 130,000 students in California, K-12, participated in Mock Election 2000 activities.

The purpose of Mock Election is to reduce the apathy and sense of powerlessness that young people and, in many cases, their families have about voting and to cultivate a sense of the power of participation.

Evaluation survey responses from past Mock Elections show that the Mock Election activities work to accomplish these goals. In California, the Mock Election civic education activities assist in implementing the State's K-12 History and Social Science curriculum standards.

The National Student/Parent Mock Election (NSPME) is the parent organization for the Mock Elections programs held in the 50 states.

How will Mock Election 2002 be implemented in California?

Local units of the League of Women Voters will work with schools to assist in any activities the schools and teachers wish to include in the program. Activities can be as complex or as simple as classroom time and teacher/school interest allows. Leagues may team with PTA units and other community-based organizations to support Mock Election activities.

NSPME has created online election study guides for teachers which are posted on the national Web site. There are many other online resources available, including C.I.V.I.C.S., a high school curriculum developed by the office of the Secretary of State.

November 1, 2002, is Mock Election Day. Students will vote on statewide offices and on selected state ballot measures. Election Central in California is the Secretary of State's Office. California results will be posted online at the Secretary of State's Web site. Results of the votes in all the states will be announced through the resources of America Online, a national partner.

How do I/we get involved?

Teachers, schools, community-based organizations or interested individuals should contact the League's state coordinator Nancy Mahr at <nlmahr@cox.net>. She will connect you with activities in your area.

Local Leagues may contact Ms. Mahr for additional information on developing your Mock Election program.

Links

National Student Parent Mock Election - online election study guides for teachers and more...

Secretary of State Mock Election - find an enrollment form, instructions, ballot, and election results (when available).

Smart Voter -- find election information for contests and candidates on your ballot