If I had a voice strong enough, I would do everything in my power to reduce the amount of racial discrimination. The other day on the news I saw a poll showing that many more black people were pulled over than white. I think that is horrible because racism is so hurtful and wrong. If people think that slavery was so wrong, then why are they making the same brutal mistake over again? It's crazy how hypocritical Americans can be. So, I would change the unfairness towards different races, and make everyone feel equal, and be treated equally because I believe that is very important.
- Sima, Grade 9, Age 14
More homeless shelters for the poor, and extra food for those who can't afford it. In our schools, I think it has done a good job, but for athletes in school sports it takes up a lot of time. I think athletes should have extensions on projects or homework and have time to study. I know I've seen my grades go down as the practice time grows, and not much energy left to think.
- John, Grade 9, Age 14
If I had more of a voice, I would change the fact that they are about to install cameras everywhere in the campus. I don't think that cameras are that necessary. There are other more necessary things like materials in class, equipment, programs and other things like that, that would make our learning environment better and exciting.
- Lynna, Grade 9, Age 14
If I could make a change I would shorten classes. I wouldn't shorten school; I would just make classes shorter so kids could have a study hall. This way we can do our homework before we leave school so in case we have after school activities we won't have to stay up until 11:00. It would let us enjoy our time at home and also feel less stressful.
- Jimmy, Grade 9, Age 14
If I had more of a voice in my school or community, I would change the time school starts. Even if we go to bed at 8, we caní't fall asleep until around 10 or 11, or even 12, and some of us have to wake up at 5:30 am to get to school on time (like myself). We need way more sleep than that. School should start at a later time in the morning.
- Lindsey, Grade 9, Age 14
If I had more of a voice at my school I would have there be a surprise backpack check. This way kids with illegal objects or substances are caught. If I had more of a voice in my community, I would have the sidewalks re-paved since there are lots of bumps and cracks, making the sidewalks unsafe.
- Kendyll, Grade 9, Age 14
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So they have hope of making conditions in life better. They could be voting for the president who make a campaign promise of lower taxes (presidents can’t really do that actually, it’s a different governmental branch). Or they might be voting for a proposition beneficial to them. All in all people vote for change.
- Cooper, Grade 9, Age 14
People choose to vote because they want to express their ideas and make even the smallest difference in the world. People believe that it is important because you are putting your voice and your ideas into your world and your society. You are not only contributing your beliefs, but you are actually contributing yourself. When people vote they vote because afterwards when their candidate or proposition wins, they can say, "Wow! I really helped!"
-Zara, Grade 9, Age 14
Voting is power. Voting is making a choice, which will directly affect you. People don’t live to feel helpless. They don’t like to feel they have no control. Voting gives you control; control over who controls you. It is a way of balancing power.
- Gillian, Grade 9, Age 14
Well, this is what I can recall from 8th grade history… Ideally, in our country, everybody has an opportunity to get what they want. When you vote, you are telling the country what you believe on certain issues. If you can’t find a candidate you like, you can run yourself!
- Samuel, Grade 9, Age 15
The most common reason people vote for is to get their voices and opinions out. The election is the only opportunity many have to speak about their problems with government, culture, and society. Many also do so to help their cause. By voting, they are able to try to help people who embody what they believe in. When I am able to vote, I will do so because there are too many people who complain and when election day comes, do nothing about it. Voting will reflect my opinions.
- Jack, Grade 9, Age 14
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