As Election Day, for the United States, nears closer on Tuesday, November 5th, Geneva High School, with the help of National Social Studies Honors Society (NSSHS), is aiming to encourage as many students as possible to register to vote.
NSSHS coordinator, and GHS Social Studies teacher Katherine Steely says that regardless of one’s political opinions, voting is a right that many people do not take advantage of, nor do many take seriously enough.
“Hopefully by getting students involved early, they can execute their right and understand the importance [of voting].” Steely said.
Additionally, she says there will be multiple occasions to register, and that any student who is 18 by November 5th should seize this opportunity.
“NSSHS members are interviewed on GTV to encourage students to sign up to vote, and the League of Women Voters come in to register students 2 times each year,” Steely said. “Once in the fall, and once in the spring.”
Even NSSHS president, Hannah Shreve, says voting is an important topic to be educated on, as it gives people the opportunity to contribute their voice to our collective society.
“America is, in principle, a democracy where its leaders are supposed to be chosen representatives for the people, by the people, and if people don’t vote, they are much less likely to get their ideology represented in office,” Shreve said. “If people don’t know how the voter registration process works, education should be prioritized, so everyone, regardless of differences in opinion, can contribute their thoughts to the political system.”
Shreve acknowledges that voting can be a daunting task to think about at such a young age, but nonetheless believes it should be encouraged and that voting serves as good practice for learning responsibility and real-world applications.
“I think everyone that is able to vote should,” Shreve said. “When political efficacy in a country is lower, people are often less happy with their government because people feel as though the leaders don’t represent them well. However, if people didn’t vote, this is, in part, their own fault.”
Other GHS student, Daniel White, shares similar views to Shreve and says he believes voting is an important life skill that should be practiced, starting now.
“One vote can contribute to our country as a whole, so everything counts.” White said.
NSSHS also looks forward to helping with other small events, such as the voting drive, throughout the semester to try and have an impact on the school community.
“These are fun opportunities to both get in service requirements and make a physical difference,” Shreve said. “I also love to see everyone at both the projects and meetings!”
Steely too says she loves working with others who are just as passionate about Social Studies as she is and enjoys coordinating events that give students the chance to contribute to the Geneva community. She also further discussed the specifics which will soon occur at GHS.
“This semester, our group organizes a holiday meal for Geneva families in need,” Steely said. “Last year, we supplied, 25 meals to students and their families around the district.”
Additionally, Shreve hopes to create an online presence to represent herself and the entirety of the NSSHS program.
“I also hope that we can make some social media accounts to represent the organization to wider audience and spread awareness about our own projects or other related activities within the community.” Shreve said.
Aside from their assistance with the voting process, NSSHS’s overall goal is to provide students an outlet to be involved civically in the community, help those in need, and facilitate leadership opportunities for students interested in the Social Studies.
