Oregon’s Kid Governor® is a statewide civic education program for 5th graders created by the Connecticut Democracy Center and managed by the Oregon Secretary of State’s Office from 2017-2025. Check back in 2026 for updates on new management.
This annual program provided 5th graders the experience of nominating one student candidate from their school and voting in an authentic statewide election. Participants researched issues affecting their community, developed platforms, and created campaign videos. Schools held primaries, and each school’s nominee advanced to the state election.
In November, 5th graders statewide watched the campaign videos of seven finalists and voted for their preferred candidate and platform. The winning student became Kid Governor, serving a one-year term with a Cabinet to promote their platform and inspire peers to make a difference in their local communities.
Learn about Oregon’s past Kid Governors on the Past Kid Governors page.