During an election year, patriotic McNeil High School social studies teacher Iris Castillo wears red, white and blue nearly every day. Recently, 10 of Castillo’s students realized the benefit of her public spirit after she encouraged them to do their civic duty and apply to become Student Election Clerks for the 2016 election.

“I am big on pride of our nation and I encourage students to do their civic duty,” Castillo said. “Being a Student Election Clerk will expose them to different people from different backgrounds, making them more aware of the issues.”

The McNeil students who applied and are serving as election clerks are seniors; Angela McMillian, Briana Ochoa, Rosa Camacho, Katia Turner, Meikel Camacho, Elizabeth “Liz” Alderson, McKenna Chandler, Saffana Velji, Angela Speirs, Andrea Fearon and junior Kenzie Fiske.

Student Election Clerks help open and close the polling place, check-in voters and get first-hand experience with the electoral process. Student Election Clerks are paid $10.00 per hour and receive a school-related absence.

“Ms. Castillo told us every day to be involved and fill out the application,” Katia said. “It’s a big day and I want to learn more about the process and make a contribution.”

To serve as an election clerk students must be at least 16 years old on Election Day; enrolled in a public, private, or qualified home school; be a U.S. citizen and a resident of Williamson County. Students must also have consent from a parent or legal guardian and school principal and attend a three-hour election worker training program for poll workers before Election Day.

“I held them accountable, but the kids had to step outside their comfort zone and put in the application on their own, which demonstrated a real desire to do this,” Castillo said. “I’m really proud of them.”

On September 1, 2009, the 81st Texas Legislature passed Senate Bill 1134, which allows high school students 16 years of age and older to serve as election clerks in Texas elections. The program was initiated as a means to introduce students to the electoral process and inspire them with interest in their government and to provide election authorities with an additional resource of persons who can serve at the polls.

“It’s a very interesting year; I wish I were able to vote,” Katia said.