Registrar of Voters

Student Election Workers

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  Apply to be a Student Worker

Program History

Since 1993, Nevada law has allowed high school students to serve as election workers on Election Day. This program gives students in Washoe County the chance to experience democracy in action before they are old enough to vote. By joining the team of election workers, students gain hands-on knowledge of the voting process while contributing directly to their community.

 

Qualifications

To participate, students must be U.S. citizens, residents of Washoe County, and at least 16 years old by the time of training. They must also be currently enrolled in high school, in good academic standing, and have permission from both a parent or guardian and their school. Students are required to attend training before serving, and schools may excuse time to participate in the program.

A signed permission slip from both the student’s parent or guardian and their school is required.

 

Duties

Student election workers assist with several tasks that help vote centers run smoothly. Duties include:

• Helping with Election Eve setup, opening procedures on Election Day and closing at night
• Greeting and directing voters
• Checking in voters at intake stations
• Activating voter cards and guiding voters through the process
• Assisting with closing and securing the vote center alongside fellow election workers

Election Day is a full-day commitment. Vote centers are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., and workers are expected to arrive by 5:30 a.m. and stay until the closing process is complete, typically around 9 p.m.

 

Compensation and benefits

Student election workers earn $175 for serving on Election Day, plus $25 for attending mandatory training and $25 for helping with Election Eve setup. They also receive a personalized certificate of appreciation from the Registrar of Voters.

In addition, many schools may offer academic credit or community service hours for participation, especially for students in government or political science classes. Students should check with their teachers or administrators for available credit opportunities.