By Aireana August Turner, Features Editor | March 22nd, 2024
The Primary Elections of 2024 have concluded, and some of our fellow Carson High School students participated and served during this time. The Primary Elections occur on March 5th each year, and students are allowed to join this program providing students with a chance to serve as election workers in Los Angeles County.
When signing up for this experience, LAVote states that “you must sign a consent form” indicating that you can work the required days, fill out the online application, and meet the requirements listed on their website in order to be considered. Those at CHS who have worked in the Primary Elections have all had noteworthy experiences while participating in this worthwhile opportunity.
“My experience at the Primary Elections was very interactive,” said CHS senior Ashlee Alvarenga. “I got to help out voters and have a better understanding of the election process. There were a lot of voters that came to the location where I was appointed which made it more exciting.”
The Primary Elections aren't something that you should pass up. Students of all kinds get to challenge themselves with hands-on, interactive encounters within the election process. However, this doesn’t mean you won't come across difficulties within your workplace, but there’s always a way to make improvements and solutions.
“The most challenging thing while working at the Primary Elections was on the last day when we had more people come in to vote, and it was difficult to find the voter’s record,” said CHS senior Perla Gutierrez. “Thankfully, the other adults that volunteered and had more experience were able to give me ideas on how to specifically change my inputs, and I was able to help the voters in that field.”
Every year, the Primary Elections push for students to join the program and become student election workers. The benefits (earning community service/service learning credits, which can be inputted on college applications and resumes, and getting a paycheck) for participating are worthwhile and shouldn’t be taken for granted. Those who have participated give the experience high marks.
“I recommend other students to take the opportunity and help with the Primary Elections as it was very enjoyable,” said CHS junior Joycelyn Cruz. “You get to meet new people, you gain tons of leadership skills, and you get paid. The possibilities are endless.”
When the Student Election Worker Program starts up again next Primary Election, don’t hesitate to sign up! Don’t miss out on the benefit for yourself and the community.