LOS ANGELES – The Los Angeles Unified Board of Education today approved a resolution designating October 6, 2026, as California Student Mock Election Day across all District middle and high schools, giving more than 100,000 students the opportunity to experience the democratic process firsthand.
The non-partisan initiative will allow students to research candidates and ballot propositions, engage in civic discussions, and cast mock ballots using the California Secretary of State’s official educational resources and approved voting platforms. The goal is to help students develop informed civic habits and understand the importance of participating in democracy.
The resolution also strongly encourages L.A. Unified high schools to conduct voter pre-registration drives for eligible 16- and 17-year-old students, helping young people to take their first official step toward participating in elections when they turn 18.
“Democracy isn’t just a subject we teach out of a textbook, it is a practice,” said Board Member Sherlett Hendy Newbill. “By designating October 6 as California Student Mock Election Day across LAUSD, we are providing our students with powerful, hands-on experience in civic leadership. Our goal is to ensure that every young person in Los Angeles understands that their voice has power and their vote is their currency. By pairing this mock election with a district-wide voter preregistration drive, we are tearing down barriers to the ballot box and empowering the next generation of Angelenos to actively shape the future of our city and state.”
The resolution reinforces Los Angeles Unified’s commitment to civic literacy, student leadership, and democratic engagement, while providing students with a safe, educational, and non-partisan opportunity to learn how their voices can help shape the future of their communities.
The resolution was authored by Board Member Sherlett Hendy Newbill and co-sponsored by Board Members Scott M. Schmerlson, Dr. Rocio Rivas, Nick Melvoin, Karla Griego, Kelly Gonez, and Tanya Ortiz Franklin.
“Civic education is an essential part of preparing students to become informed, engaged, and responsible citizens in the world. California Student Mock Election Day gives our students an opportunity to experience democracy firsthand by learning how elections work, engaging with issues that matter to them, and making their voices heard. We want every student to understand that their voice matters and that they have an important role to play in shaping the future of their communities.” Superintendent Andrés E. Chait
“Civic engagement and democratic participation are among the most important things that we can teach our students. Today, even though over half the country's voting-age population is under 45 years old, under 50% of that demographic actually votes, and it varies widely between ethnicity and race. Our students must understand the power they hold at the ballot box, helping them realize the importance of self-determination that may lead to better policies in education, employment, healthcare, retirement, and others.” Board President Scott M. Schmerelson
"Democracy is a skill we must teach and continuously practice. Student Mock Election Day provides young people the opportunity to find their voice, learn how to be an active participate in our democracy, and build the civic leadership skills that will shape the future of our city, state and nation." Board Vice President Dr. Rocío Rivas
“Preparing students for life after graduation means preparing them to be informed and engaged citizens, and there’s no better way to learn about democracy than by participating in it. I’m proud to support this resolution recognizing Student Mock Election Day to help our students build the habits of civic participation that can last a lifetime.” Board Member Nick Melvoin
“Excited to see our students learning about elections and practicing civic responsibility with the support of their teachers and school staff. Student mock elections provide a meaningful opportunity for young people to develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to become active and engaged citizens in the real world.” Board Member Karla Griego
“We need young people to engage in our democracy, now more than ever. From national to local issues, youth voices are essential to shaping our future, and through mock elections and school voter registration drives, we can build a foundation of civic engagement that last a lifetime.” Board Member Kelly Gonez
“Civic engagement starts with giving students the opportunity to see their voices in action. I’m excited to see our efforts enhancing voter education across LA Unified. Recognizing Student Mock Election Day will provide our students with hands-on experience to build lifelong civic habits for their communities and our country.” Board Member Tanya Ortiz Franklin
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CONTACT: Dr. Krishna Y. Smith, Chief of Staff | Board Member Sherlett Hendy Newbill | District 1 | (213) 241-6382
Published August 25, 2026