JACKSON, Miss — Secretary of State Michael Watson honored K-12 students and teachers during a special awards ceremony at the Two Mississippi Museums Thursday morning. The event honored 45 student winners and their teachers from across the state, and marked the conclusion of the 2023 Promote the Vote (PTV) program, the longstanding voter education effort consisting of mock elections, contests, and elections curriculum.

This year’s theme “Voting! The Power to Change the Future!” encouraged students to realize the impact voting has for today and generations to come. 

“It is an honor to recognize our award-winning Promote the Vote participants. These outstanding young Mississippians embrace learning about the elections process and civic duty, and we are extremely appreciative of their teachers, parents, principals, and administrators for instilling these principles during adolescence," said Secretary Michael Watson.

Our office continued the partnership with Mississippi Public Broadcasting's (MPB) Education Department. In addition to the art, essay, and poetry contests, MPB organized a video production contest to boost participation and spark friendly competition across the state.

PTV is open to all teachers and students in grades K-12. We encourage participation by public, private, and parochial schools as well as home school associations. Details regarding registration for the 2024 program will be announced on our website at a later date.

 
Click here to view a list of contest winners.

Click here to watch the PTV Awards Ceremony.