WHAT IS PROMOTE THE VOTE?

Promote the Vote (PTV) is the Secretary of State Office’s comprehensive K-12 voter education program. This year’s theme, “This Land is My Land” encourages students to realize the impact voting has for today and generations to come. Students will have the opportunity to participate in school-organized mock elections and will apply other skills through various PTV contests, such as art, essay, and poetry contests. Mississippi Public Broadcasting’s (MPB) Education Department is partnering with the Agency to encourage school, teacher, and student participation through video.

WHO CAN PARTICIPATE?

The program 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.

HOW DO I GET STARTED?

Educators and parents wishing to participate in the 2024 Promote the Vote Program may register online. Registration will close December 13.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THIS YEAR'S PROGRAM?

• Mock Election:
  • This year, students in grades K-12 will have the opportunity to vote on the statewide offices. The PTV Mock Election will be Tuesday, October 15. The mock election is open to all students who are enrolled in a Mississippi school or program registered for Promote the Vote.
• Art Contest:
  • Grades K-2:
    • Draw what you like about Mississippi.
  • Grades 3-5:
    • Draw what you like about Mississippi or draw what makes you proud to be from Mississippi.
  • Grades 6-12:
    • Choose from the following three options: Create a piece showcasing the natural beauty or Mississippi. Interpret the lyrics of Woody Guthrie's song This Land is Your Land into visual art. Depict past moments in Mississippi history that make you proud to be from Mississippi
• Essay Contest: 6-12: The lyrics of Woodie Guthrie's "This Land is Your Land" showcases many wonderful things about the scenery of America. After reading the lyrics, explain what makes Mississippi a great place to live. Use key details from the song as inspiration for your answer.
   
• Poetry Contest: 6-12: Write a poem that expresses what makes Mississippi or your city/town great. Be sure to include a good use of descriptive language to your answer.

DOES IT COST ANYTHING TO PARTICIPATE?

Promote the Vote is a free program offered to all schools and teachers in the State of Mississippi by the State. All classroom materials are available for download after registration.  For questions or assistance, please email ptv@sos.ms.gov.