Iowa Secretary of State, Paul Pate was on hand at Lone Tree Junior/Senior High School yesterday to deliver the Carrie Chapman Catt Award to the school.

In a 2019 initiative by Pate to encourage voter registration, the award is given to schools who register at least 90 percent of their eligible students. Last year, 97.44 percent of Lone Tree’s seniors completed their registration, earning them their third award in as many years. Schools can also receive statewide recognition if they register between 50 and 70 percent of their students.

Following the presentation of the award, Pate spoke to Lone Tree’s current seniors about the importance of getting involved in democracy and having their voices heard. “Young people are underestimated in so many ways, but we’ve seen in the last few elections in Iowa the 18 to 24-year-olds have been voting in record numbers.” he said.

Social studies teacher at Lone Tree, Mick Dickinson, concluded the event by helping his students complete their registration. With most seniors in attendance, Lone Tree is eyeing their fourth-consecutive award next year.