HARRISBURG, PA — The Shapiro Administration has announced that 33 high schools across Pennsylvania earned Governor’s Civic Engagement Awards (GCEA) for their student-driven efforts to register eligible peers to vote during the 2024-25 school year. This initiative saw over 5,000 students registered to vote, demonstrating the power of youth-led civic engagement.
Of the participating schools, 19 received Gold Level Awards for achieving a voter registration rate of at least 85% among eligible students. An additional 14 schools, including Avon Grove High School and Coatesville Area Senior High School in Chester County, earned Silver Level Awards for achieving a registration rate between 65% and 84%.
The awards program, overseen by the Pennsylvania departments of State and Education, also highlighted the efforts of 555 students across 16 counties. At a press conference held in the Capitol Media Center, Secretary of the Commonwealth Al Schmidt emphasized the significance of involving young people in the democratic process. “Students at these winning schools worked hard to register their eligible classmates to vote and hopefully launch them on a lifelong habit of voting,” noted Schmidt.
Angela Fitterer, Executive Deputy Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Education, further underscored the broader goals of the program. “Civics education must empower students to participate actively, responsibly, and knowledgeably in civic life. Programs like the GCEA are essential because they celebrate student achievement while reinforcing the lifelong importance of civic responsibility,” she said.
Building 21 High School in Allentown City School District stood out for earning a Gold Level Award for the seventh consecutive year. Jennitza Claudio, a senior who spearheaded the school’s voter registration drive, reflected on the experience, saying, “Being able to help everyone get together and take control of our future gives me strength to use my voice. I know I’m not just a part of history; I’m making history.”
Beyond voter registration efforts, the GCEA recognized 476 juniors and seniors who served as poll workers during the November 2024 general election. These students, representing schools across Pennsylvania, including a significant number from Philadelphia, played a critical role in ensuring accessible and efficient voting experiences. Approximately 30% of student poll workers were bilingual, highlighting the program’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity.
The Shapiro Administration’s recognition of these schools and students underscores the importance of fostering civic responsibility among the next generation. By registering thousands of new voters and engaging directly in the electoral process, these young leaders are setting a strong example for their peers and contributing to the health of Pennsylvania’s democracy.
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