Turning eighteen is always an exciting occasion for members of the senior class. Entering into adulthood opens lots of doors, like playing the lottery, getting a tattoo, or even getting married! However, this milestone comes with its responsibilities.
Eighteen is also when Americans are legally old enough to vote, and with the presidential election coming up this November, it is especially important this year for seniors to register to vote as soon as they can.
However, in a poll of 30 eligible seniors at the Mount, only 10 are currently registered.
“It’s important to do it now if you fit the parameters, because what happens is: you go to graduation, then you have senior week, then you have your summer, and then the next thing you know, you’re at college and you didn’t do a mail-in or absentee ballot. Unless you have the ability to come home and do it, you’re going to be stuck and not be able to have your voice heard,” Mrs. Alaina Schools, AP U.S. History and Government teacher, said.
Mrs. Schools also stressed the importance of taking time to learn about the candidates and their positions after registering.
This year, the candidates are likely to be Donald Trump for the Republican Party and President Joe Biden for the Democratic Party. However, these will not be the official candidates until after the National Conventions for each party, which will be held in July and August, respectively.
Following the Conventions, the general election will be held on November 5. Most seniors who are voting will require mail-in or absentee ballots if they are going away to college or will be out of their municipality for the election.
Other important information includes deadlines for voter registration. The last day to register to vote for this year’s election is October 21, and the last day to request a mail-in or absentee ballot is October 29.
“We, in the Social Studies department, want you guys to leave here as good citizens, and I think good citizenship starts with being informed and having your voice heard,” Mrs. Schools said.
To register to vote, go to pavoterservices.pa.gov or scan the QR code outside of Mrs. Schools’ classroom.
