Civic education is critical to the success of our students. The study of civics helps us understand how government works and how citizens can influence government. Hundreds of Gwinnett high school students recently demonstrated one of the most powerful civics lessons when they registered to vote through registration activities at their schools. To be eligible to register, a student must be a U.S. citizen, a legal resident of a Georgia county, and at least 17½ years old. (Young people must be 18 on or before Election Day to exercise their right to vote.)
Registration drives continue through April 24, the deadline for Georgians to be registered before the 2018 election season kicks off. The Primary Election is set for May 22 when Georgians will determine which candidates will meet in the General Election on Nov. 6 for statewide and local offices. Specially trained staff members in our schools can help eligible students, faculty, and community members register to vote on campus. Prospective voters also can submit a voter registration application online or by mail. County residents can call the Gwinnett County Office of Elections at 678-226-7210 with questions. Log on to My Voting Page (MVP) for registration status, mail-in application and ballot status, poll locations, information on absentee voting, rules related to change of address, and more.