For the first time in the United States, young people aged 16 and 17 in Oakland and nearby Berkeley will be able to vote in school board elections. This historic change came about as a result of youth organizing efforts that pushed for measures allowing young people to participate in local school board elections. Berkeley approved the change in 2017, and Oakland followed suit in 2020, making it the largest community in the nation to extend voting rights to this age group.
The initiative to involve young people in school board politics is significant for several reasons. Research shows that when young people participate in the democratic process early on, they are more likely to continue doing so as adults. Additionally, allowing young people to have a say in decisions that directly impact their education is a powerful way to engage them in shaping institutions that affect their lives. The schools are where they spend a significant portion of their time during adolescence, so they have firsthand knowledge of the issues at hand.
Recently, a school board candidates’ forum organized by students in Oakland drew a crowd of 200 students. Six out of seven candidates attended the event, where they fielded questions from students and shared their platforms. The students were engaged and wore T-shirts with slogans emphasizing the historic nature of their vote and the importance of including them in decision-making processes.
Young voters, who are often more informed about current school issues than older voters, have a unique perspective to bring to the table. Many adult voters may not be familiar with the challenges facing schools today, making it crucial to involve those who are directly impacted by these issues. In a district like Oakland, which is facing declining enrollment, budget deficits, and potential school closures, the voices of students can provide valuable insights and help shape better outcomes for all stakeholders.
Patrice Berry, a former teacher running for the Oakland school board, expressed the sentiment that involving students in the decision-making process will ultimately benefit the entire community. By giving young people a seat at the table, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and effective governance structure that reflects the needs and perspectives of all members of the community.
Overall, the initiative to involve young people in school board elections is a positive step towards fostering civic engagement and empowering the next generation of leaders. By listening to the voices of young voters and including them in important decision-making processes, we can create a more inclusive and representative democracy that serves the needs of all community members.
Louis Freedberg is EdSource’s interim executive director.