MSBEHigh School Voter Registration Contest
You hold the key to your future when you register to vote.
To increase youth participation in the democratic process, we are launching an annual statewide voter registration contest for Maryland high school seniors. At the end of the 2025-2026 school year, SBE will present the Key award to the high schools that achieve a voter registration rate of at least a 90 percent among eligible seniors.
The Key award is inspired by the American national anthem written by Maryland's own Francis Scott Key. To quote the national anthem, this is "the land of the free and the home of the brave". We encourage you to empower your students to use their freedom to vote and make their voices heard.
How do I take part?
Download and complete the application (PDF) confirming that at least 90 percent of the school's eligible students are registered.
Once you've completed the form, save your work, then attach the document to an email addressed to: [email protected].
Or print the form, then mail it to:
Attn: Lexy Rhoden
Maryland State Board of Elections
151 West Street, Suite 200
Annapolis, MD 20401
Students eligible to register to vote must be:
- A U.S. citizen;
- a Maryland resident; and
- at least 16 years old*.
*You may register to vote if you are at least 16 years old, but you cannot vote unless you will be at least 18 years old by the next general election.
Note: Applications are due by February 2, 2026 COB if your school wishes to nominate two students to be honored in front of the general assembly and receive the Key award. Applications are due by June 17, 2026 COB if your school wishes to only receive the Key award.
How can my school help students register to vote?
Upon request, we are happy to supply your school with the documentation and information you need in order to begin to register your students to vote. You can also reach out to your local board of elections and request a voter registration drive.
Questions?
SBE Contact
Lexy Rhoden, Director of Communications
[email protected]