MOOREVILLE, Miss. (WTVA) - At schools around the state, like Mooreville Elementary, students have been studying all about politics.
Monday, they got their chance to cast ballots in a mock election for president.
From presenting a voter identification card at sign in, to marking their ballot and then putting it in a box to be counted, this mock election day is as realistic as possible.
Teacher Erin Watson said, "As a citizen, once they turn 18, they have the right and the duty to vote. Without taking part in that, they lose their voice in government. They're excited to get to pretend to be an active, voting citizen."
Along with what takes place on election day itself, the students have learned about the political parties and were able to do research on both presidential candidates.
One student said, "We have learned about the presidents, governors and state representatives."
Another student said, "I've learned that voting is what people 18 years of age and older do to decide who's president of the United States."
Students around the state from kindergarten through seniors are taking part in Promote the Vote.
This program is sponsored by the Mississippi Secretary of State's Office and includes events all this week at schools around the state.
Jeremy Martin with the Mississippi Secretary of State's Office said, "Today there will be students from kindergarten through seniors. Many of the seniors may actually vote for the first time in the presidential election."
It's a fun, yet important way, officials say that encourages students at an early age about getting informed about candidates and then to exercise their power in deciding who should lead.
By the way, Mooreville students elected Governor Mitt Romney over President Barack Obama in a landslide.
The final count was Romney's 96 votes to Obama's 11 votes.
The statewide totals for Promote the Vote will be announced later this week.
