Generation Z is gaining quite the reputation for getting their news from social media, influencers, and YouTube. This trope goes hand-in-hand with the notion that the latest crop of voters are disconnected, uninterested, and above-it-all. But, based on interviews, Battle students tended to refer to themselves as politically involved and excited to vote. What gives between the Gen Z rumors and real life sentiments?

United States History teacher Susie Adams implements lots of political engagement into her lesson plans. She said that she tries to promote forums, events, and other ways for students to get involved to get conversations started in class. 

“Our students are our future,” Adams explained on why she is so adamant that politics be a part of students’ lives. Approximately 25% of the student body at Battle can vote. However according to 2018 Midterm Election results, only 23% of eligible voters cast ballots, nationally. 

“I think it’s concerning that lots of teens don’t vote,” Rayan Bouchama, sophomore, said. “The things that we get to vote on will directly affect us in the future so I think we should use the voice we’re given.”

Not all students found politics easy to get into, though. 

“Politics were pretty intimidating to get into because of how much goes around about it being complicated and a bad scene, ” sophomore Collin Riley said. Riley got involved in politics during his freshman government class, where students participated in mock elections, Congressional sessions, and debates. “I think simple things like checking the news every few days (to stay engaged) makes a big difference.”

“I think if we can open up a dialogue and get kids civically engaged while they’re still young, it’s a lot less scary as a grown-up,” Adams said. 

Battle has a wide range of political opportunities and groups for student engagement and political involvement. The Battle Political Action Club, sponsored by Adams, focuses on current events and developing progressive dialogues between students.