by Deborah Grill
To the Board of Education
February 22, 2022
Dear Board Members:
I am writing in support of Action Item #25, The Student Voter Education and Registration Resolution. I firmly believe that public schools are the foundation of a democratic society, and it is only fitting that they should not only teach about participatory democracy and civic responsibility, but also provide eligible students with the means to take part in the most fundamental step in the democratic process by assisting them to register to vote.
While this resolution is a step in the right direction, I urge you to take it one step further and make Student Voter Education and Registration a District policy, and make civics instruction part of every school curriculum, not just high school. Students at all levels need to be made aware of the importance of making their voices heard and the available means to do so. It is especially important now as our democracy is being threatened by attempts to suppress the vote and undermine civic institutions.
Thank you for considering this resolution. I look forward to seeing it incorporated into policy in the near future.
Respectfully,
Deborah Grill
Alliance for Philadelphia Public Schools 