Democracy in action: Students take school trip to early vote

Students experience democracy in action on field trips to the polls

By Marc Freeman | South Florida Sun-Sentinel

October 29, 2008

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Brenet Etienne stepped off a school bus Tuesday morning and walked to the back of a line of voters waiting patiently to enter the Palm Beach County Supervisor of Elections Office.

"It's outrageously long, but it's worth it," said Etienne, 18, eager to vote early in the U.S. presidential election. "I support change."

Nearly two hours later, Etienne and 39 senior classmates from Palm Beach Lakes High School in West Palm Beach became first-time voters and got a live lesson in democracy.

Teacher Melanie Lee arranged the field trip for the group, who signed up along with 64 students during a voter registration drive on campus last month.

Similar efforts at high schools across the county attracted about 4,000 new voters, school district spokesman Nat Harrington said. The Palm Beach Lakes bus trip was the first of its kind locally during the 14-day early voting period.

"This proves to the kids how important it is," said Lee, who is the school's student council adviser. "Hopefully we'll make lifelong voters here."

Carlos Pabon Jr. said this election will show that those in his generation are interested in more than just music, TV and sports.

"This is going to be making history," he said. "We really do care about the economy and how everything is going in the world."

The students were highly informed voters. They've debated election issues in American government class and council meetings. They watched the presidential debates and researched the candidates.

"So many people think young people won't get out and vote," Bianca Jones, 18, said. "We have to show them that we're willing to participate."

Jones said part of her motivation is helping to elect the nation's first black president.

Ashley Worthy, 18, said she preferred Democratic nominee Barack Obama despite his position on abortion.

"I can overlook the negatives," Worthy said.

Nadia Woods, vice president of the school's debate team, said her peers are worried about the future.

"I'm voting about issues I care about," Woods said, mentioning the economy and financial aid. "How am I going to be able to pay for college?"

As the line inched closer to the polling station, Ray Turner said he was still undecided between Obama and Republican candidate John McCain.

"I won't know until I get in there," Turner, 18, said. "Whatever feels right."

Marc Freeman can be reached at mjfreeman@SunSentinel.com or 561-243-6642.