Take the following actions:  (1) Receive a report of activities which took place during the September 19-30, 2016 “High School Voter Education Weeks”; and (2) recognize the High School Students who participated.

In 2014, Assembly Bill (AB) 1817 was signed by Governor Brown designating the last two full weeks in April to be High School Voter Education Weeks. The Board adopted a Proclamation on March 22, 2016 proclaiming April 18 – 29 and September 19-30, 2016 as “High School Voter Education Weeks” in Shasta County.

AB 1817 and the Board’s proclamation provided an opportunity for high schools and their students to partner with county elections officials to promote civic education and participation on campus and foster an environment that cultivates lifelong voters and active citizens. The information distributed provided nonpartisan information to high school students to encourage them to participate in the election process, including how and when to register to vote, how to vote by mail, how to find their polling site, how to find information about candidates and issues, and how to find election results. In addition, California Secretary of State, Alex Padilla, supports this initiative to engage high school students and prepare them to become active participants in our nation’s democracy. 

Twenty-two students from eight high schools became voter registration coordinators. Approximately 259 voter registrations were turned in along with 17 voter registration pledges collected. Fourteen students signed up to be Student Poll Workers on Election Day.

There are no viable alternatives recommended, as one of the responsibilities of government leaders is to encourage all eligible citizens to register and vote.

The County Administrative Office has reviewed the recommendation.

There is no additional General Fund impact associated with approval of the recommendation.