Iowa Secretary of State Michael A. Mauro
Invites You to the 2008 Iowa Student Caucus

What:		2008 Iowa Student Caucus
		On January 3, 2008 Iowa Democrats and Republicans will take the first step in deciding who will be the next President of the United States. Caucus goers will assemble all over Iowa in meetings to discuss politics, candidates and the issues that concern us most. During the caucus, participants choose which candidate we like the best, which political issues to debate and who we want to elect to participate in the next step in the Presidential selection- the county convention. As a student you will be participating in this exact same process.
When:		The weeks prior to the Iowa Caucus (January 3, 2008)
		Weeks before the real caucus you and other students like you will be able to learn about how a caucus works, who the candidates are and what they stand for before participating in your own Student Caucus. You will be able to discuss politics, debate upon issues, and choose the candidate that you like best.
Where:		Your school
		Your school will be the perfect setting for such an event. However, before the caucus can be held you have to know how it works. That is why we have created this curriculum to help you better understand how this process works. This curriculum will also walk you through how to hold your own Student Caucus. You will get to practice what happens at a real caucus along with many other students throughout the state of Iowa. You will get a chance to discuss, debate and decide in your own student caucus. You and many other students in Iowa will vote for whom you want to be the next President of the United States.
Why:		Because your vote matters!
		The caucuses are important because government impacts our everyday lives. Government has a say in almost everything you do. From laws relating to what foods you are served at school to protection from bullying, government affects you. Because of this it is imperative that you take part in the political process and the caucuses are one of the most significant ways to get involved and make a difference. The Iowa Caucuses are the best example of democracy and it is important to learn about the caucuses at an early age so that when you are able to vote or if you are able to vote that you are an informed voter and, you will participate to make a difference.
How:		Sign-up to Participate!
		View the step by step participation instructions, fill out the Teacher Application/Sign-up   sheet and return it to the Secretary of State's office via email to gina.fontanini@sos.state.ia.us, via fax to (515) 242.5952, or by mail to Iowa Secretary of State, ATTN: Gina Fontanini, Statehouse, Des Moines, Iowa 50319.
Hosted by: Iowa Secretary of State Michael A. Mauro, GDDC, Rock the Vote