PGCPS High Schools Compete to Register New Student Voters

 UPPER MARLBORO, MD — Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS), in partnership with the League of Women Voters of Prince George’s County (LWVPGC) , is launching a districtwide voter registration drive this March that challenges high schools to register the highest number of eligible student voters.

This effort is a collaboration between LWVPGC, the PGCPS Social Studies Office, and Prince George’s Regional Association of Student Governments (PGRASG). Open to students ages 16 and older, the drive transforms civic education into real-world action by giving students hands-on experience with the voter registration process while encouraging peer-to-peer engagement.

“Conducting voter registration in Prince George’s County high schools is work the Prince George’s County League of Women Voters has always done and thoroughly enjoys,” said Joyce Duckett, President of the Prince George’s County League of Women Voters. “We’re excited to work directly with the PGCPS Student Government Association (SGA) on the voter registration contest and we salute them for the idea because it brings attention to the importance of voting and makes it exciting and fun”.

To encourage participation, prize money will be awarded to Student Government Association executive boards at the schools that register the most students: 1st Place: $5,000; 2nd Place: $3,000; 3rd Place: $2,000; and $1,000 for the school with the most creative social media and flyer campaign.

PGCPS is also encouraging students to serve as election judges to see the democratic process in action. Participating students can earn $50 for training and $300 for each day served at a polling place.

"Voting is the most fundamental way for our students to transition from learning about history to actually making it," said Interim Superintendent Dr. Shawn Joseph. "By engaging our young people now, we are  cultivating lifelong citizens. It is vital that our students understand their voices carry immense weight in shaping the future of their communities and their country".

To ensure their school receives credit for the competition, students must use an official QR code found on posters throughout their school.

• Online Registration: Requires a Maryland ID, driver’s license or learner’s permit and the last four digits of a Social Security number.
• Paper Option: Students without a Maryland ID can use a paper application, available in multiple languages. Students should check the "No ID" box and return the form to a teacher or volunteer for delivery to the
  Board of Elections.

Funding for the voter registration drive contest is provided by a donation to the League of Women Voters of Prince George’s County.