HARRISBURG, PA — In a move aimed at bolstering civic engagement among young people, the Shapiro Administration, in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Education, has introduced a program that enables college students in Pennsylvania and nationwide to engage in nonpartisan civic activities through the Federal Work Study (FWS) program. This initiative marks a significant step towards integrating the energy and enthusiasm of the youth into the foundational processes of democracy.
Pennsylvania Secretary of the Commonwealth Al Schmidt and Department of Education Secretary Dr. Khalid N. Mumin have both lauded the program, emphasizing its potential to not only assist students financially but also to deepen their involvement in democratic processes. “An educated citizen is an engaged citizen,” Mumin remarked, highlighting the dual benefits of the program in fostering a more informed and active electorate while helping students offset the costs of their education.
The recent decision to allow FWS funding to be used for get-out-the-vote efforts, staffing election offices, and other similar functions comes at a critical time. Local counties often struggle to recruit the roughly 45,000 volunteers needed to run elections smoothly. By drawing on the student population, which is already engaged and motivated, this initiative could significantly alleviate these challenges.
Schmidt underscored the importance of involving younger generations in electoral processes, pointing out that the future of the nation’s democratic fabric relies heavily on their participation and engagement. The program aligns with the goals of the Pennsylvania Campus Voting Challenge, which seeks to boost student voter turnout and civic awareness across higher education institutions in the state.
This development follows a concerted effort by a coalition of Secretaries of State, including Schmidt, who advocated for the expanded use of FWS funds to include nonpartisan civic engagement work. In response, U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona issued guidance clarifying that such activities are permissible uses for FWS allocations, provided they are not affiliated with any specific political interest or group.
Approximately 3,400 postsecondary institutions across the country participate in the FWS program, offering students the opportunity to gain employment in a variety of settings, including federal, state, or local public agencies, and nonprofit or for-profit organizations. To be eligible for FWS assistance, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which serves as part of the broader application process.
The integration of civic engagement opportunities into the FWS program represents a forward-thinking approach to education and democracy. It not only provides financial support to students but also instills a sense of civic responsibility and participation. As young people increasingly take up roles in election offices and polling places, their direct involvement could bring fresh perspectives to the electoral process and ensure that democracy remains vibrant and inclusive for all.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.