Ballot Box for the ARMS Mock Election
Amherst Regional Middle School (ARMS) is immersing students in the democratic process through a mock election that mirrors the current Massachusetts ballot. The activity, organized by the school’s social studies department, is designed to help students understand the importance of civic engagement and prepare them for the responsibilities of voting in the future.
“This mock election gives students a chance to experience what civic duty will mean for them,” said Juan Rodriguez, Assistant Principal to ARMS. “It helps them become better acquainted with the choices their families are making on current issues.”
ARMS Students at the Mock Election Polls
This mock election is part of a longstanding tradition at ARMS, where students in civics classes participate in activities that foster an understanding of voting rights and the election process. According to Dr. Laroche, the mock election is integrated into the curriculum as students complete projects and participate in discussions about voting rights and the importance of voter participation. Students even conducted “Get Out the Vote” campaigns and spoke with family members who are eligible to vote, engaging in conversations about ballot questions and candidates.
Students are voting on major races and issues featured on the Massachusetts ballot, including the presidential and vice-presidential candidates, the U.S. Senate and Massachusetts Second Congressional District races, and all five state ballot measures. Dr. Laroche shared that the students had in-depth discussions in class to understand the ballot’s questions and choices, covering a range of topics from national offices to key state measures.
Ballot Box for the ARMS Mock Election
To bring the experience even closer to a real election, ARMS students will help count the ballots, with poll workers tallying results in advisory periods. The seventh-grade students joined in on the voting on Monday, allowing them additional time to connect their global studies curriculum with the election’s focus on current events. The final tally will be announced by Monday evening, giving students a sense of accomplishment as they see the results of their mock election.