BY NAOMI D. MAESTAS
Los Alamos County Clerk

I want to take a moment to emphasize the importance of voting in school and branch college elections. We typically see a low turnout for these elections and as of today, we only have a 10% turnout, but I think we can do better! 

As members of this vibrant community, we share a collective responsibility to shape the future of our educational institutions. School elections provide us with a valuable opportunity to exercise our democratic rights and contribute to the decision-making process that directly impacts our children’s education.  

By casting your vote, you actively participate in shaping the direction of our schools. Your voice matters, and each vote represents an invaluable contribution to the selection of school board members, who play a pivotal role in setting policies, allocating resources, and making crucial decisions that affect our students, teachers, and families.

School elections also serve as a powerful way to engage and educate our youth about the democratic process. By witnessing the importance placed on voting, our children learn first-hand the significance of civic engagement and the value of their opinions. It’s a positive example for the next generation, teaching them that their voices matter, and that they have the power to effect change.

Moreover, voting in school elections creates a sense of community ownership. It fosters a culture where everyone’s perspectives are heard and respected, promoting a diverse and inclusive educational environment. By participating, we ensure that our schools reflect the values, aspirations, and needs of the entire community, thereby creating an environment conducive to growth, learning, and success.

So, let us come together as a community and embrace the power of our votes. Encourage your friends, neighbors, and fellow parents to participate in this year’s Regular Local Election. By doing so, we can collectively shape the future of our schools and provide the best educational opportunities for our children.

Remember, voting is not just a privilege; it is a responsibility! Let us exercise it with pride and conviction, knowing that our active involvement in school elections contributes to the betterment of our community as a whole.

Please visit https://www.losalamosnm.us/Home/Tabs/Whats-Happening/Election-Information to learn how you can participate in this very important election and NMVote.org to obtain a sample ballot. 

Thank you for your commitment and dedication to our schools and local branch college.