2023 - Winner for Distinguished Voter Education and Communications Initiatives - Small/Medium

The Beaufort County Board of Elections and Washington High School in North Carolina collaborated to pioneer a classroom-based voter education initiative. The program convenes election administrators, students, educators, and elected officials to foster civic engagement, with a particular focus on the importance of voting. By facilitating direct conversations between local elected officials and students, the initiative cultivates a sense of civic responsibility and meaningful engagement with the democratic process. Through active discussions, students participate by listening and addressing questions to officials, fostering relationships crucial for future voters. These authentic exchanges deepen students' understanding of the government and its functions. Additionally, the program has heightened officials' awareness of youth-related issues such as limited employment opportunities and rural housing challenges. Tangible community improvements, like enhancements to recreational facilities in the City of Washington, have stemmed from this collaborative effort. The program was shared with educators across the state at the 2023 North Carolina Council for the Social Studies in Greensboro. The program serves as a beacon of civic and election education, empowering students and enhancing community-government relationships to foster positive results.