Mock Election
The Youth Civic Futures Initiative Mock Election gives Colorado students hands-on civic education by having them cast ballots featuring real 2026 candidates and issues. Through this experience, students learn election fundamentals, how to evaluate candidates, and how to complete a ballot — building the confidence and knowledge the next generation of voters needs to engage with democratic processes.
About the Mock Election
The Colorado Mock Election is an educational non-partisan program designed to give the next generation of voters experience with the democratic process. Using real 2026 candidates and ballot measures, participants practice the essential skills of research, evaluation, and ballot submission.
What: Civic Learning in Action
A simulation using official 2026 candidates and ballot measures to teach election fundamentals and media literacy.
Who: Students, Educators & Community
Designed for high school students by high school students, supported by educators, and open to community partners across Colorado.
When: Fall 2026 Timeline
Registration is open from June through November, with voting taking place from October 8 to November 3, 2026.
How it Works: Simple Steps
1. Register your group. 2. Explore the lessons and candidates. 3. Cast ballots. 4. Analyze election results.
Details
Cost: Free!
Time: 45 minutes - 2 hours (depending on which lessons you teach)
Lessons, Program Guide, and Ballots
Coming soon!
Teachers, Students, Parents
For Educators
For Students
For Parents
Sign up your classes to participate in the mock election.
Sign up to vote as an individual in the mock election. You'll still receive all instructional materials.
Sign your student up to vote in the mock election. You (and your student) will still receive all instructional materials.
Learning Outcomes & Benefits
Discover how the Colorado Mock Election empowers participants with the skills and confidence needed to become lifelong engaged citizens.
Increased Confidence
Participants build self-assurance in navigating the election process, reducing barriers to future real-world voting.
Voter Literacy
Hands-on practice reading ballots and evaluating candidate information helps students become savvy information consumers.
Understanding Democracy
Gain a practical understanding of how Colorado elections work, from local measures to state-wide candidate selections.
Civic Voice
Empower young people to recognize their civic duty and the power of their individual voice in shaping regional outcomes.
How It Works
We provide all necessary materials and support to ensure a seamless mock election experience for your school or community group.
Step 1
Sign up via Google Form (linked above), and recieve the program guide, timeline, and additional resources via email.
Step 2
Decide which lessons, worksheets, and resources you want to use with your students.
Step 3
Teach the lessons and vote! Submit your classes mock election results to the Youth Civic Futures Initiative (you will receive instructions via email on how to submit results).
Step 4
Receive election results and debrief.
Questions?
Contact youthcivicfutures@gmail.com