EL MONTE – El Monte Union High School District inspired students to use their voice and promoted civic engagement during its Early Voter Registration event, held on campuses from Sept.13 to 24.

Early Voter Registration was emphasized throughout the District as part of the state’s High School Voter Education Weeks which promote civic education and participation on campuses statewide. El Monte Union schools promoted the event on social media, during morning announcements, classroom discussion and on-site registration booths. The event was open to all students ages 16 and 17.

Pre-registration allows eligible California residents who are United States Citizens to complete their registration in advance, ensuring they are ready and able to vote on the first election day after they turn 18.

At Arroyo High School, the Student Advocates for Voter Empowerment (SAVE) club set up a table during lunch periods with access to computers and information on how to register to vote.

“The SAVE club works to empower young citizens to affect change,” SAVE club president Shaina Luevano said. “Our goal this year is to have every senior student register or pre-register to vote.”

Throughout the District, senior-level social science, government and economics classes shared information on how to register to vote, offered time to register and gave students the opportunity to ask teachers for assistance. Students can also pre-register to vote online by visiting the El Monte Union High School District Voter Registration Information page.

“One of the most empowering things for a young person is to feel competence,” said Nicholas Kunka, Arroyo High School social studies department chair and SAVE club faculty advisor. “This initiative walks them through the steps of registering to vote. Once they’ve learned that they can do it, they’re more likely to keep doing it and become engaged citizens down the road.”

Early Voter Registration efforts support the District’s vision to motivate students to be lifelong learners and contributing members of a global society.

“Exercising the right to vote is one of the fundamental responsibilities of citizenship,” Superintendent Dr. Edward Zuniga said. “I would like to thank all of the students who led these efforts on our campuses and all of the students who registered to vote.”

PHOTO CAPTIONS

EMUHSD_REGISTRATION1: SAVE Club member Bailey Yip assists a fellow student on Sept. 22 during Arroyo High School’s Early Voter Registration drive.

EMUHSD_REGISTRATION2: SAVE Club members Miranda Sierra, Michelle Duan, Shaina Luevano, and Bailey Yip celebrate after their first Early Registration drive on Sept. 22.