2007 News
March 15, 2007
Commissioner Miller Leads Call for Community Service for Students to be Election Officials
As Primary Day approaches, the Bucks County Commissioners want to remind citizens of a unique chance for high school students to serve in integral positions at polling places throughout the county. At a recent Board of Elections meeting, Commissioner Sandra A. Miller proposed working with Intermediate Unit (IU) #22 to encourage students at least 17 years of age to get involved in the election process. The paid positions include either clerk or machine operator, and students can choose to work a full or half-day. According to Deena Dean, director of the Board of Elections, a recent change in the election law now permits 17-year-olds to work on Election Day.
“We are thankful to Dr. Richard Coe of the IU for his cooperation as we endeavor to involve more young people in the election process, and reinforce their sense of civic responsibility,” noted Commissioner Miller. “I know I join with Commissioners Martin and Cawley in encouraging Bucks County high school students to make the most of this opportunity to serve their communities. I look forward to seeing them at the polls this May.”
Interested students should reach out to their respective building principals, who will have the requisite paperwork to initiate the process.
Criteria for volunteering include the following:
- At least 17 years of age
- US citizens and residents of Bucks County of Bucks
- Enrolled in a secondary education institution with an exemplary academic record
- Written approval by the school principal on school letterhead
- Written consent of parent or guardian with contact information for the student
- Judge of elections must have direct supervision of the student
- Student may not serve as any other election official
- No more than two students per voting precinct.