The following article was provided by SMMUSD.
John Adams Middle School (JAMS) recently transformed its classrooms into spaces of civic discovery, with eighth grade social studies and Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) students learning the impact of democracy through a hands-on mock election and an inspiring visit from California State Senator Ben Allen.
Spearheaded by social studies teachers Titia Murphy and Cori Goldberg, the initiative encouraged students to understand democracy’s core principles and the significance of voting from an early age.
Murphy and Goldberg began by introducing students to the fundamentals of democracy, examining “free and fair elections” and “citizen participation” as essential elements. Through collaboration with the League of Women Voters, students delved into the history of voting rights in America, creating a timeline that was featured in a workshop at the Santa Monica Public Library and is now on display at Santa Monica City Hall.
This preparation led up to the California Statewide Student Mock Elections on October 8, 2024, when JAMS students had the opportunity to cast their votes in a simulated statewide election.
Prior to casting their votes, the eighth-grade students studied each of the California ballot measures and candidates, discussing both national and local impacts.
“Exercising your right to vote is one of the most powerful ways to engage in our democracy,” said Murphy. “Our students learned that while voting in national elections is critical, the decisions made at the local and state levels often have the biggest impact on our daily lives.”
As the unit drew to a close, Senator Allen visited JAMS to speak with students, underscoring that civic engagement begins early and that every vote truly counts. His presence brought a real-life connection to the classroom lessons, reinforcing that “we the people” hold the power to shape communities and that young voices matter.
“Voting is our most important way of being involved in the democratic process and if people don’t vote, if you yourself don’t vote, you’re letting other people make the decision of who runs the government for you,” said Senator Allen during his visit to JAMS. “Power does not dissipate just because you don’t patriciate.”
The project extended beyond social studies as students in the AVID program took the principles of civic engagement further, participating in community service activities and sharing insights from their lessons. AVID students were able to engage with the local community directly, speaking at the library event to
underscore the role of civic awareness and community participation.
Murphy emphasized the importance of empowering students to engage in their communities and make their voices heard.
“Your power is your voice, and your voice matters, young, old, any race or gender,” she said, highlighting the significance of early civic involvement.
Goldberg shared a similar perspective, explaining that her role as a history teacher extends beyond lessons of the past.
“I teach U.S. History not only to educate students about the past but to prepare them for the future,” said Goldberg. “Students today need to be equipped with the skills and knowledge to make a difference, to discern fact from fiction, and to exercise their voice effectively when they reach voting age.”
Through these experiences, JAMS students walked away with a deep understanding of the democratic process and the knowledge that their voices have power. The takeaway from these engaging lessons was clear: their voices matter, and as future voters, they are essential to upholding democracy.
