Lincoln Public Schools hold mock elections ahead of midterms

Posted By: Alden German
agerman@klkntv.com

Thousands of Lincoln Public Schools students practiced one of their civic duties during school Thursday. They took part in mock elections ahead of the real elections on November 6th.

One of the defining characteristics of the United States is voting process. LPS students between the 4th and 12th grades took the opportunity to make their own voices heard.

While they can’t legally vote, students, such as those 4th and 5th graders as Humann elementary, have spent months preparing for their election day and learning about the American government.

“We really want to start at an early age getting students involved in the democratic process, and giving them opportunities to be informed, engaged, and active citizens,” said Jaci Kellison of Lincoln Public Schools.

Younger students learn the basics of voting, while high schoolers take time to research and scrutinize candidates to form their own opinions.

At Humann, a three–student election commission was on hand to ensure voting went smoothly.

It was a realistic environment as nearly 150 young voters went through registration, waiting in line to vote, casting their ballot, and even receiving an “I voted” sticker.

Kim Nannen teaches 4th grade at Humann and says the school kids have been very engaged.

“They’ve had lots of good questions and interesting conversations just among themselves about the process and the opportunity,” said Kim Nannen, a Fourth Grade teacher at Humann.

Kinley Vlieger is a 5th grader at Humann and election commissioner.

She said she’s learned about the two major political parties, when the elections were, what elections one can and can’t vote in, among other lessons.

She also has a very important message for everyone, including adults.

“Their vote is their vote. They shouldn’t vote for what their friends want or what their family wants, they should vote for what they think is right,” said Vlieger.

Over 20,500 students cast votes. Results show Pete Ricketts as victor over Bob Krist for governor, Jane Raybould upsets Deb Fischer in a close race for U.S. Senate, Jeff Fortenberry narrowly defeated Jessica McClure and Spencer Danner easily won over Bob Evnen for Secretary of State. Students also voted in favor of Medicaid expansion (only high school students voted on this) and for mayoral term limits.