CHARLESTON — Secretary of State Kris Warner has announced the launch of a statewide contest inviting all West Virginia eighth-grade students to design an “I Voted!” sticker, with the winning design to be distributed in the student’s home county during the 2026 election cycle.

“I Voted!” stickers provide a way for voters to display their participation in the election process, with the contest giving West Virginia youth an opportunity to showcase their creativity while learning the importance of civic engagement.

“Voting is the cornerstone of our constitutional republic,” said Warner. “By involving students in this contest, we hope to inspire the next generation of voters and encourage them to take pride in participating in elections.”

The contest is open to all eighth-graders enrolled in public, private or home schools in West Virginia, with submissions due to their respective county clerk’s office by Jan. 27. Stickers must include the phrase “I Voted!” and reflect themes of civic pride or West Virginia heritage.

Public and private school students are asked to submit their designs to a designated teacher or staff member at their school, while home school students may submit their designs directly to the county clerk’s office.

Judging will be held on the county, regional and state levels, with the state judging done through a public vote on the West Virginia Secretary of State’s Facebook page.

The four regional winners will be invited by Warner to visit the State Capitol to attend the announcement of the 2026 statewide winner.

Warner said that several other states host similar sticker contests to create interest and participation in their upcoming election. West Virginia’s Primary Election is scheduled for May 12.

For information, including official rules and submission guidelines, contact the secretary of state’s office at (304) 558-6000.