Ballot-ready before they can vote: Bangor juniors take their oath to work Election Day

BANGOR, Maine (WABI) - Every other year, Bangor High School juniors raise their right hand and get sworn in — not for court, but for Election Day.

The AP Government and Politics students from Bangor High School join nearly 150 poll workers and volunteers staffing the polls on Nov. 3, learning the nuts-and-bolts of democracy from check-in tables to ballot boxes.

A decade-long tradition

For nearly 10 years, City Clerk Lisa Goodwin, now in her 35th year with the city, has partnered with the high school to turn a civics lesson into hands-on experience.

“I just think it’s important for the kids to get involved in the process so they understand what happens at the polls and that their voice matters,” Goodwin said.

Goodwin calls it a well-oiled machine — veteran wardens and clerks paired with first-time student workers eager to learn.

First time at the polls — without a ballot

For most of the 11th graders, like Asa Corui and Pink Austin, it’s their first time inside a polling place as workers — even though they can’t vote yet.

“A lot of people my age are already involved a little bit in politics, they just can’t vote yet,” said Corui.

“I think everyone’s voice matters. I see a lot of people online saying one vote doesn’t change anything, but it’s important to get your voice out there,” said Austin.

The next generation of voters

Goodwin says the goal is simple: take the mystery out of voting, ease any fears about the process, and inspire future voters — and future poll volunteers.

“The students nowadays are more in tune and they’re dialed into what is going on, and I think this class is fabulous,” Goodwin said.

Austin already plans to return:

“I know when I’m older, I’ll come back and volunteer at the polls again.”