To the editor:

As we approach the November 2023 general election, I am encouraging Kansans to take advantage of the opportunity to serve as a poll worker at your county election office. Poll working is an excellent way to pursue civic engagement and learn more about our electoral process.

Kansans who are 18 years old, a U.S. citizen, registered to vote and willing to complete training provided by the local election official can serve as poll workers. Additionally, Kansans as young as 16 years of age can serve as poll workers through our “Student Serves” initiative. The Secretary of State’s Office has partnered with various education organizations to encourage high school student participation. There are several benefits: Students may receive minor compensation for their time, earn community service hours or extra credit for school, and participation makes students stand out on college and scholarship applications.

I hope parents and teachers will urge their students to volunteer. Poll workers play a vital role and will have the opportunity to work with other members of the community and learn about the inner workings of Kansas elections. I urge all eligible Kansans to consider becoming a poll worker.

For additional information about becoming a poll worker, please visit VoteKansas.gov. If my office can be of any service to you, please do not hesitate to contact the office at 785-296-4564.

Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab