It’s been a hot and turbulent summer and it is easy to feel overwhelmed. Wouldn’t it feel great to be in control and exert power over your reality? Voting can be your superpower if you will embrace it. Whether you are a teacher, an administrator, a parent, a student, a counselor, a coach, a librarian, or any Texan, your power is in your vote!
This November 8, Texas voters will choose elected officials at every level of government. Sometimes people stay home because they think their vote doesn’t count – because of gerrymandering and the like. Please know that every single Texas vote counts. You can’t gerrymander the whole state – so important statewide positions like Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and Attorney General are decided by every single Texas voter who shows up. You have the power.
This is the perfect time to watch elected officials in action and meet their opponents, tell them your priorities, and learn about theirs. This is one of the ways to research your vote, and we will send you other simple ways to learn about your options in the coming weeks and months.
Education will be on the ballot at every level and this election is far too important to sit out. Voting is how you can exert control over your community – by picking candidates who share your values and who will work for the 5.5 million Texas students and the 1.5 million current and retired educators who care for Texas students every day.
The process of civic engagement is empowering, and it is how you can shape the world to be one you want to live in. It can provide a great sense of hope in an otherwise overwhelming time. Let’s take one step at a time. Right now, focus on making sure you are registered to vote and encourage your co-workers, friends, and family to do the same.
Here are some key dates to keep in mind:
October 11: Deadline to register to vote
October 28: Last day for a mail-in ballot application to be received at your county
October 24-November 4: Early Voting
November 8: Election Day
To Do:
- If you think you are registered to vote, make sure by checking your status here.
- If your address has changed, click here to update your registration.
- If you are new to Texas or just never registered, click here to start the process.
- If you want to understand how your vote will affect your job, your kids, your teachers, and your schools, click here to learn who does what in public ed and why your vote is so important.
- For more info on how to register, research, and vote, visit the TEV website.
Social media posts to share:
- “Register to vote before the October 11 deadline. It will be here before you know it!” #Txed #TxLege #Vote #TxEdVote
- “Did you move? Do you know someone who did? Check your voter registration info and update it. Tell your co-workers, friends, and family. This election is too important to miss! Be ready!” #Txed #Txlege #vote
- “Make sure you are registered to vote so you can stand in your power and pick your leaders!”#TxEd #TxLege #Vote
The future is in your hands as a Texas voter. Make sure you are registered to vote!