Goodrich – This year’s political activism is much higher than the last presidential election, says Goodrich High School senior Janee Jones.
‘I couldn’t believe how much the kids talked about it in school,? she said. ‘It was amazing compared to four years ago.?
Janee, 18, voted twice this year: In Monday’s mock school election, and in her actual precinct Tuesday.
In Monday’s election, 377 students in grades nine to 12 voted.
Despite the absence of a straight-ticket option, some election results resembled national popular vote percentages.
George W. Bush won the student election, with 193 votes, or 51 percent. John F. Kerry won 147 votes, 39 percent; and Ralph Nader claimed 37 votes, 10 percent.
Goodrich High School staffer Jason Gray teaches civics, economics, and advanced placement U.S. History.
Seeking to increase political awareness, Gray and other social studies teachers educated students from campaign to polls this year.
Students produced campaign videos, issues were contended with in class, students registered to vote, old polling booths were acquired from Atlas Township and set up for students to cast ballots.
Students ‘formed opinions based on issues, not popularity, looks, or what Mom and Dad say,? Gray said.
Some students gave up part of their lunch hour to stand in line to vote.
‘But it was a good lesson,? said Gray. ‘Being an active citizen can mean some sacrifice.?
The students eligible to really vote found actual ballots somewhat different from the single-item mock ballots, said Janee.
‘The kids that could vote were talking. If you filled out to vote straight party, it didn’t tell you not to fill out the rest of the sheet,? she said. ‘I think for younger voters you have to be more specific.?
Despite some confusion, political spirit was at an all-time high Tuesday, said Gray.
‘I don’t know if it had to do with the mock election or not, but people were wearing Bush and Kerry shirts. I was impressed with the whole student body’s awareness of what’s going on.?