Student Election Officer Program - Registrar of Voters (DEP)

Student Election Officer Holding Flag

Since 1997, the Santa Clara County Registrar of Voters Office has coordinated and administered a highly successful Student Election Officer Program that gives qualified high school students the opportunity to learn about and participate in this essential component of our democratic process. The opportunity to serve as a Student Election Officer on Election Day is an invaluable, real life experience that will bring awareness to young Americans regarding the importance of voting as well as help to lay the groundwork for a lifetime of civic involvement and responsibility.

REQUIREMENTS FOR PARTICIPATION

At least 16 years of age at the time of the Election

Grade point average of 2.5 or higher

Permission from the School Coordinator/Principal

Permission from Parent/Guardian

Complete Election Officer training class

Work full or half day on Election Day

BENEFITS TO STUDENTS

Earn a stipend of up to $130.00 for full day, up to $82.50 for half day

Earn community service credits

Learn about the Election process first hand

Learn about the importance of voting and civic involvement in your own community

Great addition to resume for college admissions and employers

Valuable job experience that involves cooperation, organization, decision making and customer service skills

Valuable intergenerational experience

WHAT DO STUDENTS DO?

Complete a training class prior to Election Day

Arrive at polling place at 6:00 am (for full day or half day AM shift), or at 2:00 pm (for half day PM shift).

Follow all duties as explained in the training/manual, and as indicated by the Precinct Inspector

Setup, close polling place and assist voters

HOW TO APPLY

Download and complete (print clearly) the application located at the bottom of this page

Fax application to: Election Specialist, Student EO Program at 408.282.3115

Program is conducted on a first come-first served basis - apply early!

STUDENT PLACEMENT in a precinct

We endeavor to place students in their home precinct or as close to home as possible. We do not place students in private residences. Students join a "board" that includes a Precinct Inspector (Supervisor) and several adult Clerks. The board members work together to setup the precinct, process and assist the voters and close the precinct.

Stipends

Stipend for Student Election Officers on Election Day: $95.00. Students are also paid $20.00 for training. Students attending an optional Election eve (Monday night) setup of the polling place are paid $10.00. Bilingual Spanish, Vietnamese, Mandarin, Cantonese, or Tagalog Students may be paid an additional $5.00.

QUESTIONS ABOUT THE PROGRAM?

Please call 408.282.3089 or email edwin.torralba@rov.sccgov.org