As the 2024 election approaches, some students will be eligible to vote for the first time. Regardless of where they live, students can participate in local voting. Registration will be available on campus, and on Election Day, buses will take voters to Salisbury Town Hall.

Every year, Mr. Keith Moon, instructor in English and history, organizes on-campus voter registration sessions in partnership with Salisbury Town Hall. Mr. Moon has a longstanding involvement in public affairs. In the past, he served on the Salisbury school board for eight years and the Region One school board for two years.

Student groups Demz, Repubs, and Hotchkiss Political Union continue to provide opportunities and spaces for students to learn about and discuss current events and politics. “Present issues around the economy, reproductive rights, marriage rights, and paying for education, housing, and healthcare are hugely important for young adults,” said Mr. Moon.

Student voters have turned out in significant numbers for past elections; the school sent a record 55 students to the polls in November of 2016.

Many members of the community are passionate about voter education. As part of this effort, Mr. Moon invited journalist Ayesha Rascoe to give this year’s Beal Lecture in September. Ms. Rascoe spoke about the urgent need for unbiased and responsible journalism. Mr. Moon said, “Rather than watching the news or social media, which places a premium on images and quick information, you should read. Politics require nuanced thinking. Explore multiple sources of information to form your own stance on national issues.”

First-time voter Jack Laganza ’25 said, “A lot of people don’t have the privilege of being able vote; the fact that we were given that right should be enough of a reason to do so.”

“The decisions taken by the next president and Congress will have a greater impact on younger populations,” said Mr. Moon. “There’s nothing more important than electing our leaders. It’s the very principle that defines America.”