With Election Day coming up on Tuesday, November 5th, AP U.S. Government and Politics (AP Gov) is in full swing, preparing for the upcoming presidential election. The class is creating mock campaigns, having class elections, and learning about how the whole election works. AP Gov is one of the most popular classes for juniors, as an alternative class for Skyline’s Government requirement.
“In general, [in AP Gov] we discuss political ideology, parties, money in politics, civil rights and liberties, elections, and so on,” says AP Government teacher Christopher Naar. “One of my personal favorites is examining court cases, making connections to constitutional law, and understanding how these court cases impact the lives of the students.”
“The projects are very fun,” says Adam Makki (‘26). “We do a lot of things related to politics and government involvement.”
AP Gov is a great class for learning about politics, election patterns, and what goes on in the government behind the scenes. “I believe [the students] realize the importance of having a solid understanding of our political system and really want to participate by having a say in their futures,” says Naar. “They know that in order to make change, they need to be aware of how our government works, how they can participate, and how to hold the government accountable for addressing the needs of the people.”
Although most of the students in AP Gov are under 18 and can’t legally vote, they still play a big part in the election and still have a major voice. “It’s very important to see how the course of america is gonna go,” says Makki. “Following the election, it gives you a better perspective.”
With this school year crossing paths with the presidential election next month, the three AP Gov classes are getting ready for the upcoming poll. “When there is a presidential election coming up, it certainly adds a nice twist,” says Naar. “We get a chance to examine the election process in real time and students are able to make direct connections to what we are learning and the electoral process. It really is a great learning opportunity.”
The students in AP Gov are creating special projects to show what goes on behind the scenes in an election. “We will be doing a mock campaign to go along with the presidential election this year,” says Naar. “Students will be in groups, nominate a candidate, make campaign ads, and all the other good stuff that goes into a campaign and ultimately holding our election.”
Many students in Skyline are following the election even though they can’t cast a vote. “Students want their voices heard and want to be able to have a say in the direction of our communities, our state, and our country as a whole,” says Naar. “Even if most of the students won’t be able to vote in this election, they are taking the steps to understand how the system works.”
