Vote Like a Pro! Oak Lawn-Hometown Middle School’s Mock Election Brings Democracy to Life

On November 4th, Oak Lawn-Hometown Middle School invited its entire community—over 1,100 students and staff—to join in a fun, hands-on mock presidential election! The event was set up just like a real election, with students forming teams and voting using a system that represented the Electoral College. At the end of the day, everyone got to hear the results, leading to lots of great conversations at home about voting and what it means to be part of a democracy.

Seventh-grade Social Studies teacher Mr. Keith Ogean shared why this project matters: “This voting process helps students understand the Electoral College. We set it up so each grade gets a certain number of electors based on how many students are in each grade, just like in a real election. It’s a great way to learn how it all works!”

Eighth-grade Social Studies teacher Mr. Vince Mamolella added, “I hope students learn why voting is so important. This project shows them that they can make a difference and why making informed choices matters. It’s a way to help them see themselves as future voters who can shape their communities.”

Oak Lawn-Hometown Middle School teachers and staff believe it’s never too early to start learning about the power of voting. Media Specialist Ms. Heather McCarthy said, “It’s important for students to understand that voting is a privilege, and one day, they’ll have a say in choosing their leaders.”

Students shared what they enjoyed about the experience. Howard H. said, “I liked that we got to share our opinions about politics, which will help us when it’s our time to vote.” Mya C. loved the energy of the election: “It was fun to see people get into debates and actually use what we learned in school in real life!” And Livianna M. said, “Voting in school is good practice. When I’m old enough to vote for real, I’ll know how to look up who’s running and make a smart choice.”

With this mock election, Oak Lawn-Hometown Middle School hopes to inspire a lifelong love of civic participation and voting in every student, helping them become active, informed citizens in the future!