From USD 428
Great Bend High School (GBHS) Government students had the opportunity to experience democracy in action during a Civic Engagement presentation and mock election held last week. The event, presented by the League of Women Voters, offered students valuable insights into the voting process and the importance of civic engagement.
A highlight of the day was a mock election demonstration led by Barton County Clerk Bev Schmeidler and her staff. Using electronic voting machines, students gained hands-on experience with the same technology they will encounter at the polls, making it a meaningful “practice run” before they become eligible voters. While the ballot question wasn’t a serious matter,
Students from Michelle Moore and Carol Pfannenstiel’s government classes at GBHS participated in the event, along with visiting government students from Ellinwood High School.
“This experience is about more than just casting a ballot on the light-hearted topic of cat or dog,” said Moore, GBHS Government Teacher. “It’s about preparing students to be informed, engaged citizens who understand the role they play in shaping their communities and their future.”
The timing of the event provided a strong connection to Freedom Week, Constitution Day, and National Voter Registration Day, helping students see how classroom learning ties directly to their civic responsibilities.
For more information, please call Great Bend High School at 620-793-1521.