FAIRFIELD, CA — On October 8, 2024, students at B. Gale Wilson Middle School participated in an engaging statewide mock election, joining thousands of other students across California in an initiative designed to foster civic responsibility and excitement about voting. The Mock Election program aims to educate the next generation of voters by giving students the opportunity to experience the voting process firsthand, building a sense of engagement, anticipation, and empowerment.
In preparation for the event, students learned about key candidates and propositions in their social studies and history classes, discussing real-life ballot measures that California voters will decide in November. This hands-on learning approach helps students understand the impact of voting and their future role as informed citizens.
Thanks to the collaborative efforts of school staff, the turnout was impressive, with over 300 students casting their mock ballots in the school library. “We are truly proud of our students and the agency they demonstrated in this event,” shared Wendy Madueno, history teacher and event coordinator. “Thanks to the help and support of staff, we had a great turnout and an inspiring level of enthusiasm.”
An 8th-grade dual immersion student and Leadership president added, "In my two experiences doing the mock election, Ms. Madueno made it an exciting and interactive experience for everyone. The setting felt like a real voting office, and all the small details made every voter feel like their vote counted.”
By simulating this important civic process, B. Gale Wilson Middle School is empowering students to see voting as a valuable act of participation, fostering a commitment to active citizenship that will continue to grow as they reach voting age.