The Kids Are Alright: High School Sites Outpace Weeklong Early Voting In One Day
The Kids Are Alright: High School Sites
Outpace Weeklong Early Voting In One Day
High school students made voting history this week in Cook County.
Student-run Early Voting sites operating inside 24 suburban high schools recorded 1,136 ballots cast in a single day as part of the Clerk’s brand-new ‘Defenders of DA’mocracy’ High School Early Voting Program.
By comparison, a total of 1,021 ballots were cast during the first seven days of traditional Early Voting at countywide locations. On February 26, 2026, student voters surpassed the weeklong total of ballots cast at the Clerk’s initial six Early Voting locations, a milestone that underscores the program’s immediate impact.
“We are absolutely thrilled with the student voter turnout for this first-of-its-kind program,” said Clerk Monica Gordon. “The participating schools were filled with energy and enthusiasm, and we have now established a voting model for students that will continue to grow and thrive in future elections.”
The Defenders of DA’mocracy initiative, developed in partnership with the Chicago Bears, placed fully operational Early Voting sites inside participating high schools. More than 125 trained and certified student Election Judges operated official polling locations under the supervision of Clerk’s Office Elections staff.
Students administered voter check-in, secured ballots, operated voting equipment, and followed strict chain-of-custody and security protocols identical to those used at every polling location across suburban Cook County.
The program is believed to be the first of its kind in the nation, transforming civic education into direct civic action. Clerk Gordon emphasized that the turnout numbers signal long-term impact.
“Research consistently shows that when individuals participate in their first eligible election, they are far more likely to remain engaged voters for life,” said Gordon.
The initiative was launched earlier this year and blends civic engagement, youth leadership, and hands-on election administration. Through a unique public-private partnership, the Chicago Bears supported outreach efforts, provided Bears-branded materials for student judges, and helped amplify the importance of youth civic participation.
Expanded Early Voting continues across suburban Cook County, with 55 locations set to open on March 2 ahead of the March 17 Gubernatorial Primary Election.
For more information about Early Voting locations and hours, visit www.cookcountyclerk.com.
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