Elections

In this lesson students examine New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s inauguration speech to learn what a speech can reveal about a leader’s values, priorities and vision for democracy—and how a speech can shape how people see themselves and others in a community.

Nine suggestions for supporting students and strengthening your classroom community in these challenging times. Some are quick and easy, to calm the mind and body, keep in your pocket and have at the ready. Others are more complex for a full- or half-period lesson, and can build on one another.

In the wake of the 2024 presidential election, educators are looking for ways to address students' anxieties, build the classroom and school community, counter bias and harassment, and address political issues raised by the election.

After an activity on adultism and ageism, students read about and discuss why the U.S. Congress has become older than ever, what impact that might have, and how young people could get more involved.

Students examine the Supreme Court's upcoming decision on whether to keep Donald Trump on the presidential ballot.

Should 16-year-olds be allowed to vote? Students learn about the debate to lower - or raise - the age, and consider the pros and cons.  

Legislators in 19 states have passed laws that weaken a pillar of democracy: the right to vote. Students examine this legislation and efforts by grassroots groups to protect and extend voting rights. 

Students explore arguments for and against DC statehood and consider growing efforts by advocates, including young people, to fight for representation.

Students engage in inquiry to uncover the history of redistricting and gerrymandering and discuss the provisions of H.R.1, which proposes an end to partisan redistricting.

Students listen to and reflect on Amanda Gorman's powerful poem, which she recited at the 2021 presidential inauguration.