JACKSON, Miss. – Secretary of State Michael Watson, in collaboration with the Mississippi Economic Council, honored K-12 students and teachers during a special awards ceremony at the Two Mississippi Museums Tuesday morning. The event honored 46 student winners and 17 teachers from across the state, marking the conclusion of the 2024 Promote the Vote (PTV) Program, the longstanding voter education program consisting of mock elections, contests, and elections curriculum.

This year's theme, "This Land Is My Land," encouraged students to reflect on the unique qualities and charm of Mississippi, and why they are proud to call it "home."

“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. We are extremely appreciative of their teachers, parents, principals, and administrators for instilling these principles during adolescence," said Secretary Michael Watson.

"Voter education is an essential part of our electoral framework," said Scott Waller, President and CEO of the Mississippi Economic Council. "It is extremely encouraging to see young people across Mississippi take an interest in the process and share their ideas through the Promote the Vote program. MEC would like to congratulate the students and teachers that are being honored for their efforts."

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 2025 program will be announced on our website at a later date.

Click here to view the list of contest winners.

Secretary Michael Watson and Jason Word, Manager of Programs, Administration & Policy for the Mississippi Economic Council, pose with participating teachers.

From L to R: Jason Word (Manager of Programs, Administration & Policy for the Mississippi Economic Council), Aurene Perry (Brandon Middle School), Amani Stewart (Pearl Junior High School), Abraham Qarqish (Brandon Middle School), Fred Lovett IV (Brandon Middle School), Ivy Harper (Brandon Middle School), Secretary Michael Watson

Fair Elementary Teacher Lacanada Miller poses with her students after the Promote the Vote Ceremony.