Parkway High School students act out 2012 Presidential Election
By: Morgan Thomas
Updated: October 30, 2012
We're only one week out from the 2012 presidential election. As voters head to the polls, one local high school is getting a hands on look at how it all works.
It's a mission many people share: Getting young people involved in the political process.
One Bossier Parish school's solution has brought students and politics together successfully every four years during presidential elections.
"Even though most of the Parkway student body can't vote yet, you can still be involved, still know what Obama's views, Romney's views," said Conner Thigpen, played Governor Mitt Romney.
It's more than a mock election. Students play every part imaginable from the candidates, to secret service, to their celebrity supporters, and even talk show hosts.
"I really feel like it's a major difference in how kids participate," said Austin Smith, played Vice Presidential candidate Paul Ryan.
Each classroom has a role to play in the mock election. They represented all 50 states; learning more about the Electoral College. Before they could vote, they had to pay attention as their fellow classmates read speeches in character.
"I watched the RBC on YouTube and took bits and pieces of what Ann Romney actually said and added in facts about Mitt," said Madeline Mohler, played Ann Romney.
No one prepared harder for their role than Brandon Davis who played our current president.
"Believe it or not I watched every debate they've had," said Davis.
He almost didn't get the role. As Parkway's quarterback, he was afraid to miss practice in the middle of their football season.
"A lot of people who go
to high school they normally go with their parents think about election,"
said Davis.
Davis wants to send a message
that it's OK to think for yourself.
"I'm not allowed to vote this year, but you know enough to be able to do this and that," said Davis.
Parkway students have only been wrong three out of the eleven times they've held this event. The school has hosted a mock election every four years since 1972.
