High School Poll Workers

Did You Know that High School Students (16+) Can Work as Election Inspector?

Wisconsin law allows qualified students to serve as  Election Inspector. It's a great way for students to become involved in their communities and learn about government.

Qualifications:

  • Are 16 or 17 years of age
  • Are enrolled in grades 9 to 12 in a public, private or tribal school
  • Have at least a 3.0 grade point average or the equivalent
  • Have the written approval of their parent or guardian
  • Have the written approval of the principal of the school in which they are enrolled, if the student has less than a 3.0 grade point average
  • Reside in the municipality.
  • Students may serve only at polling places that serve their residence.

Steps to Become a Student Election Inspector

  • Municipal clerk shall obtain written authorization from the student's parent or guardian.
  • Clerk obtains written authorization from the principal of the school where the student is enrolled
    • Student must have a 3.0 grade point average to qualify to serve

Restrictions

  • A student may only serve as a poll worker at a polling place if at least one inspector, other than the chief inspector, is a qualified elector of the municipality
  • A student may not serve as chief inspector at a polling place
  • A student serving as a poll worker may not challenge any person offering to vote.
  • Other duties students may have the opportunity to perform:
    • Registering voters
    • Recording voters' names on the voter list
    • Issuing ballots
    • Assisting voters with special needs
    • Counting votes