Lincoln Students Hold Mock General Election

Students in grades 4-12 participate in a biannual simulation of the local electoral process.

Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Civic Engagement

A wooden school desk with a privacy screen and an empty collection box in a sunlit classroom. — Students in Lincoln Public Schools are participating in a mock general election, casting ballots on a simulation designed to teach civic engagement. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Lincoln Public Schools is conducting its biannual student vote event where students in grades 4-12 cast ballots on a mock election. Participants utilize a ballot mirroring the upcoming November 3 local election alongside a constitutional question about term limits.

Why it matters

This initiative serves the district mission of preparing students for future civic engagement. By providing voter guides and replicating official ballots, the school district aims to familiarize students with the electoral process.

The mock election covers the same candidates and constitutional questions as the November 3 general election. Results are scheduled for release at 4:30 p.m.

The players

Lincoln Public Schools

The educational district serving the city of Lincoln that organizes this biannual civic engagement program for its students.

The details

Students receive a comprehensive voter guide containing information about candidates to inform their choices during the mock ballot process. The program has been a staple in the Lincoln district since its inception in 1992.

1992: The year the school district began the student vote.
November 3, 2026: Date of the local general election.
4:30 p.m.: Scheduled time for publication of election results.

Political Context

Opponents of student mock elections often argue that schools should remain neutral spaces to avoid influencing young voters. These critics suggest that such programs can inadvertently prioritize certain political viewpoints or legislative agendas over objective civic education.

This event provides students with a foundational understanding of the voting process and ballot issues relevant to their community. Residents may see increased discourse among students as they learn about the upcoming November 3 general election.

The takeaway

Engaging in simulated elections can help students develop the habits necessary for lifelong participation in democracy. Young voters are encouraged to use the provided voter guides to understand the impact of local constitutional questions.