studentdemocracyprogramlogo

The San Mateo County Registration & Elections Division's Student Democracy Program is aimed at giving high school students an inside look at American democracy in action. Student Democracy Ambassadors are essential members of the Election Day team, assisting voters and participating in Vote Center operations. 

Who can participate?

In order to be a Student Democracy Ambassador, students must:

  • Read, write and speak fluent English (Elections Code §12303)

  • Be at least 16 years old

  • Have a minimum 2.5 GPA

  • Be a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident of the United States

  • Get written permission from parent/guardian and school

When does Student Democracy Program take place?
  • Recruitment begins in September 
  • Applications are due by 5 p.m. October 11, 2024
  • Training (two hours) will be in mid - October
  • Election Day is Tuesday, November 5, 2024
What are the benefits of participating Student Democracy Program?
  • It looks great on a college application or resume
  • Earn community service credits, depending on school policy
  • Represent your school
  • See democracy in action from a local perspective
  • Earn $280!
What do Student Democracy Ambassadors do?

Assist Vote Center Representatives with:

  • Set up and close the Vote Center (6:30 a.m.–9:00 p.m.) on Election Day!
  • Help voters with check-in process
  • Ballot drop-off process
  • Line management (Manage voter lines)
  • Disinfect voting materials and equipment
Where will I be assigned to work?

The Student Democracy Program Coordinator will strive to assign students to locations close to their home address.

How do I apply?
  1. Fill out a Student Democracy Program application.
  2. Fill out the W-4 Form and turn in a copy of your Social Security card or Permanent Residency card to the Registration & Elections Division (via fax, mail or in-person.)
  3. Submit your completed application to the San Mateo County Registration & Elections Division by the deadline (via mail, online or in-person) at Attn: Vote Center Unit, 40 Tower Road, San Mateo, CA 94402 or by email to StudentDemocracy@smcacre.gov

How do I get more information?

  • Your Student Democracy Program School Coordinator
  • Chephren Goree, Student Democracy Program Coordinator
  • Phone: 650.655.6205
  • Email: StudentDemocracy@smcacre.gov
Student Democracy Program Application in PDF Student Democracy Program Flyer in PDF