Charleston, W.Va. – WV Secretary of State Kris Warner announced today that West Virginia is joining the U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC) in recognizing August 11, 2026, as National Poll Worker Recruitment Day.
This day of action is meant to assist poll worker recruitment efforts in communities across the state and country. August 11th is an opportunity to highlight the vital role poll workers play in strengthening our constitutional federal republic, inspiring greater civic engagement, and helping ensure free and fair elections.
"If you have any doubt about how our elections are run, there is no better way to satisfy those concerns than by serving as a poll worker," said Secretary Warner. "And for parents who already dedicate their time to concession stands and other fundraisers, it's also a great opportunity to earn extra income for your youth league, mission trip or favorite charity."
In accordance with House Bill 4865high school juniors and seniors in good educational standing can now, for the first time, participate directly in the election process and learn the value of public service firsthand.
Currently, 46 states allow individuals under 18 to serve as poll workers. To qualify, a student in West Virginia must:
- Meet the existing eligibility requirements other than the voter registration requirement.
- Be a junior or senior in good standing.
- Maintain at least a 3.0 GPA (for public or private school students).
- Obtain written consent from a parent or legal guardian.
- Obtain written approval from the school principal if service occurs on a school day.
- Successfully complete the statutory election official training program.
West Virginia has more than 1,600 voting precincts that require more than 8,400 trained poll workers on Election Day.
The requirements to be a poll worker include being a registered voter in your county, ability to read and write in the English language, and attend poll worker training.
Poll workers are paid for both attending a training class and working the polls. Duties can include delivering election supplies to polling places, setting up voting rooms, verifying voter identities and registrations, greeting voters, issuing ballots, and securing the materials after polls close.
To learn more about how to sign up to be a poll worker, visit GoVoteWV.
