Elementary and high school students in Ontario have had the chance to experience the democratic process.
Student Vote is a hands-on learning program through CIVIX in partnership with Elections Ontario.
Students are able to research the candidates, discuss key issues and analyze party platforms.
In addition to learning about the election process, CIVIX says students will be able to experience a more “realistic” voting process with ballot boxes and voting screens.
“At a time when democracy faces challenges around the world, teaching students about the value of elections and active citizenship has never been more important,” said Lindsay Mazzucco, Chief Executive Officer of CIVIX.
“By giving young people the opportunity to learn about elections in a real-world context, we are helping to build a generation that understands the power of their vote and their role in democracy.”
After polls close, Student Vote results will be released publicly including seats province-wide, results by electoral districts and individual school tallies.
As many as 250,000 elementary and secondary students are expected to cast their ballots with more than 2,300 schools across all 124 electoral districts that have signed up.
Elections Ontario also encourages students 16-17 years-old to register for the Ontario Register of Future Voters making sure they are automatically on the voters list when they turn 18.
-With files from Brad Perry
