By Kyle Arechiga

Thousands of election workers are mobilized every election to make the voting process seamless and accessible. High school students nationwide are increasingly filling these roles, stepping up to gain valuable work experience while contributing to their community. Behind the scenes, these students handle a variety of tasks that bring them up close and personal with the intricate process of ensuring that every vote counts. Here’s an inside look at the job of a high school poll worker and the essential responsibilities they carry.

“I got involved when my counselor sent an announcement through Canvas,” senior Julienne Mendoza said. “The flier attached to it described that students would gain volunteer hours, so I took it as my chance to sign up. I was inspired to work at the voting polls since I was curious about what happened behind the scenes for an average voter. I also wanted to know what it felt like to be an election worker and thought that this would be a good opportunity to gain some kind of work experience as I’ve never had a job before.”

Before Election Day, high school poll workers complete training that covers many aspects of election work such as managing check-in technology to assisting voters with special needs. 

 “Before officially working at the polls, student election workers were required to complete a three-hour online course to learn about the different devices used to make voting possible,” Mendoza said. “I was also required to come to an in-person class where I met a few other election workers and learned how to use the election poll box, check-in iPad, and much more.” 

Election workers must also navigate specific situations, like when a voter’s ballot has already been mailed in or if they need to update their address. 

“In some cases, a voter may have a ‘Vote-By-Mail’ (VBM) that has already been returned,” Mendoza said, “If a voter states that they did not return their ballot, then an election worker can cancel that ballot and issue a new one to that voter if they decide to vote in person.” 

High school election workers play a key role, especially in helping voters with disabilities.

 “We ensure that each voter’s experience is as smooth and accessible as possible by making sure that every election worker is there for anyone who requires aid,” Mendoza said. “For voters with sight disabilities, there is braille that we lead them to on the electronic voting device where they can make their choice.” 

 Curbside voting is also available, with election workers assisting voters from outside the polling station if they are unable to come inside. High school election workers are trained to listen and respond to these requests, offering crucial support to ensure every citizen has the chance to participate fully.

The experience of working as an election worker not only teaches students about the mechanics of elections but also about the importance of civic engagement and the role each person plays in upholding democratic values.

“ I feel great for being able to contribute to the community through helping get their votes cast and be involved with assisting them when they need it the most,” Mendoza said. “Civic duty is the most important thing to a community, so having a vote center in arms reaches many voters and is run by volunteers to help the community out.”