(Editorial - Graphic Illustration - MetroCreativeConnection)

When we think about the future for our communities, state and country, it is encouraging to watch intelligent, compassionate young people as they show us they care just as much about that future and that we will be in good hands.

Among the standout examples locally are the students at Tyler Consolidated High School, who have earned the Jennings Randolph Award for civic engagement, presented by West Virginia Secretary of State Kris Warner.

“It is an honor for me … to not only present Tyler Consolidated with the Jennings Randolph Award for one year, but for two years,” Warner said earlier this week.

High schools that receive the award have a student-led voter education campaign and voter registration drive that registers at least 85% of eligible students. At TCHS, the enthusiasm for student civic engagement is so strong that after the award-presentation assembly, another voter registration drive was held.

“I want to return to Tyler Consolidated High School to present the 2025-2026 class with the Jennings Randolph Award,” Warner said. “The most basic and important right of being a West Virginia citizen is to also be a registered voter. It is a crucial part of our civic duty as citizens to participate in elections to decide who will represent us at the local, county, state, and national levels.”

With the guidance of TCHS Principal Paden Morris, counselor Terri McCoy and civics teacher Tara Byard (who were also recognized by Warner), it is likely the secretary will be able to do so.

Now the push must be to remind those who are registered to go out and vote, when the time comes. Their voice is needed now as much as ever; and we are looking forward to the difference this civic-minded bunch will make.