Sam Lane

This year, 2024 could be a huge year for many high school seniors. If they already have or will turn 18 years old soon, they will finally have the chance to take part in the election process and experience this milestone for the first time.
To register, students who have turned 18 years old can visit their local election office or look to register online. The deadline to register in Massachusetts will be ten days prior to the elections.
Senior Dylan Brenn said that although this being his first year to vote, he understands the process.
“If I was to vote, I know that I vote at Thomas Prince School. I used to follow politics a lot so I know how to sign up and register. I am fairly familiar with the process.”
Although some students can’t wait to vote, other Mountaineers don’t see the excitement.
“I couldn’t care less about politics. I only talk about them with my dad when the time comes around,” said senior Jake Kristolaitis.
The decision of whether or not the student wants to vote will be completely up to them as their right will finally be a set-in-stone.
“Everyone who wants to vote should, as it will matter. If they don’t want to, then don’t. Voting is a choice for any person to make,” said Social Studies teacher Jesse Jakubiak.
If a student does decide to vote, learning about candidates will be an imperative component to their decision-making process.
“Asking a parent about how they make their decisions is a good start to learning about the candidates. Don’t be afraid to ask people who they voted for and why,” said Jakubiak.
Students can start by researching the candidate’s policies, and the person’s beliefs. They can also check out the debates on television or look at interviews or speeches candidates have done.
Being more informed with these details students can determine how well the candidates align with what they think will be important to them.
“The school has many opportunities to learn about politics in general,” said Jakubiak, “But if a student has a question, any teacher would be more than willing to answer it.”