For the Reporter

As Washington voters cast ballots in the Nov. 5 general election, thousands of students in grades K-12 will get their chance to vote in the Washington State Mock Election.

Back for its ninth year, the Mock Election is a fun opportunity for students to experience voting for real measures and candidates.

Sponsored by the Office of Secretary of State, the Mock Election is a nonpartisan, educational program that teaches kids to be informed voters. Participating students can practice reading and decision-making skills while becoming engaged and thoughtful citizens.

Taking part in the Mock Election is free and open to all Washington K-12 students, whether they attend private, public or tribal school or are homeschooled. Voting takes place online, starting Oct. 28 at 9 a.m. and ending Nov. 1 at 1 p.m.

Students can vote by going to the Mock Election website.

Secretary of State Kim Wyman said the Mock Election prepares students for an active role in civic life.

“My hope is that every Washington student will graduate with the skills to fully engage in our democracy, and have the passion to do so,” Wyman said. “The Mock Election is a great way to introduce students to voting and why it’s important.”

After last year’s Mock Election, 97 percent of teachers surveyed saw significant improvement in their students’ comprehension of the voting process.

The first Mock Election was held in 2004, with 1,552 students participating. (There was no Mock Election in 2005.) Last year 38,848 students took part.