Some of Dallas County’s Youngest Elected Officials Talked with Students On The Importance of Their Vote Can Make Changes on Things Students Care About
Skyline High School students were treated to a rally following class today in observance of National Voter Registration Day. Students were welcomed into the rally by the Skyline Cheerleaders, Skyline Band Drumline and beats on the ones and twos by Dallas’ own DJ GS.
Students then heard from a couple of Dallas County’s youngest elected officials State Board of Education District 13 Member Dr. Tiffany Clark and Rowlett Deputy Mayor Pro Tem John P. Bowers III. Clark and Bowers engaged the students in an empowering conversation on the importance of their vote and how their vote is their voice in bringing changes at school and in their community. Clark explained to the students that the cellphone ban is on the ballot in November. Bowers explained to students how the high cost of living, daily quality of life provisions, and deciding who represents them on council and other elected positions is their choice as voters. DJ GS led the students in an interactive voting game on the subject “What Do Skyline Students Want.”
“Today, we saw democracy at its best. Approximately 100 seniors registered to vote, and students 15-18 engaged in real questions and honest debate about the voting process, the issues that affect them, and the role their community—and their vote—plays in shaping it all,” said Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Bowers. This is exactly why I ran for office at 26. The more young people see leaders who look like them getting involved, the better our cities, states, and country will be. That’s what National Voter Registration Day is about making sure every young person knows their voice counts, starting now.”
“Today is what a reflection of what happens when community leaders ad elected officials come together for greater good—today was absolutely amazing, said Dr. Tiffany Clark. “To hear directly from the students on what is important to them reminds me of why I do what I do. Today we empowered the future through courageous and honest conversations. This was just the beginning. We must keep them engaged.”
Skyline student Kenzie Leonard said, “It was a fun experience. I enjoyed getting the understanding of how my vote will actually matter in the long run.”
Skyline student Naryah Wilson said, “I felt heard and I appreciated that they had answers to all of the questions I had but never voiced out.”
Dallas County Elections with March to The Polls Inc. provided election day voting equipment demonstrations that allowed the students to vote in a mock election. Members of the Dallas Metropolitan Alumni Association of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. served as Volunteer Deputy Registrars and registered students. Approximately 100 Skyline seniors who are 18 years old or 17 years and 10 months registered.
Students also learned about Dallas County Elections’ Student Election Worker Program which allows students 16 and older train and work on election day as clerks in Dallas County voting sites. Students are paid $19.15 per hour and can earn community service hours. Application deadline for the Student Election Worker Program is September 15, 2026. Information is available at https://www.dallascountyvotes.
