Katie Corley and Mrs. Burkes (government teacher)
Student Poll Worker
"I have always been interested in politics and how our voting system works. I was very disappointed when I realized that I would not be able to participate in the upcoming election for our President because I am not yet of voting age. I have always tried to be involved in my community through volunteerism, so I was ecstatic when my mother found an article in the Carthaginian asking for a volunteer poll worker. I called the number provided, sent in my letter of recommendation that was required, and patiently waited for a phone call. It was so easy; and because I went through with it, I received the phone call and will be attending a class for election workers October 26. On election day, I will be assisting the other poll workers in keeping track of the ballots.
"Voting is such an important thing. It is a right as well as a privilege--one that we all too often take for granted. If you ever feel as though you cannot make a difference because of your age or for any other reason, don't give up; just volunteer; it is so simple and rewarding in the end."
November 2, 2004, National Election in Madden, Mississippi