Though they can't vote, teens interested

Some Charleston County high school students have been looking forward to Election Day, and not just because schools are closed.

Throughout the Lowcountry, teenagers who aren't old enough to vote in the presidential race have gotten informed and involved, whether it's hosting a mock debate, participating in a mock election or learning about it in class. Their underage voter status hasn't stymied their interest in the issues or the candidates.

"The decisions made today are going to be affecting us, any way you put it," said 16-year-old Sean Lynch, a junior at Porter-Gaud. "That's why they should care."

Some high school students plan to volunteer at the polls on Election Day, while others will have "parties" to watch the results. Last week, Lynch hosted an event at his house as a part of BBYO, a Jewish teen youth organization.

He told members they were chosen to serve on a presidential advisory committee and had to express their concerns about current issues, such as the economy and global warming. He's encouraged his peers to post their thoughts on a Web site — www.mytwocentsforchange.org — that allows teens to offer their perspective on issues that matter to them.

"Kids have a voice and opinions," Lynch said.

James Island Charter High School is another place where students have been interested in the race.

The school hosted a mock debate, and more than half of the school's students participated in a mock election. Some of its students, such as 16-year-olds Alexa Ball and Victoria Bachan, plan to volunteer at the polls.

Besides volunteering, Ball said she will spend part of Election Day standing on the side of a highway and holding signs for her candidate. She said she wanted to get involved in the election to try to educate voters and make them more aware of issues.

"This is my future we're talking about," she said. "I just want to make sure people vote."

Bachan agreed and characterized the race as historic.

"This is doing so much for our future," she said. "This seems like it's down to each and every vote and we need to make sure as many people can be there and their voice is heard."