More than 5,000 Iowa high school students registered to vote during the 2025–2026 school year through a statewide initiative led by the Secretary of State’s office.
The Carrie Chapman Catt Award program, launched in 2019, encourages schools to register eligible seniors, with top honors going to those reaching at least 90% participation. This year, a record 75 schools earned recognition, including Dike-New Hartford High School, highlighting local student engagement in the civic process.
In total, 49 schools achieved the 90% benchmark, while others were honored for reaching 70 and 50% thresholds. Secretary of State Paul Pate praised the effort, noting that more than 20,000 Iowa students have registered through the program since its inception.
State officials say early exposure to voter registration helps build lifelong civic habits. To celebrate the milestone, an award ceremony was held at the Iowa State Historical Museum, where students and educators gathered to mark the achievement.
Every school that registers at least 90% of eligible students can participate in an award ceremony, which are held throughout the year at Iowa high schools and the Iowa State Capitol.
Full press release can be found here
Photo of Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate presenting to the crowd during the ceremony
