On Oct. 17, the Student Government Association (SGA) held class council election speeches for the class of 2029 during 8th period.
The preparation that went into the elections included creating an updated version of the election packet, which included new rules regarding the use of artificial intelligence (AI).
“We had to create the election packet, [which is] basically just a copy from last year, but we had to alter it to make sure that it aligns with what’s happening this year,” senior SGA Vice President Gabby Licayan said. “We had to change the dates [and] create new rules. Especially with the rise of AI, we had to decide what’s [acceptable] and what’s not [when] running for class council.”
There are very strict regulations for students who are running in order to ensure that every student has a fair chance in the elections.
“SGA set a deadline for 10 p.m. [to turn in materials to run]—anyone [submitting materials] past that [are] disqualified,” SGA Treasurer Landon Huie said. “If they say anything that goes against school rules, we also have to disqualify them.”
While the process prior to running as a candidate for the elections is very strict, this helps ensure that the students who are running for class council are dedicated.
“I saw that a lot of students had thoughts they wanted to express, and I really wanted to be a voice to help them express it,” freshman Raashi Shah said. “It [was] difficult [to finish] all materials [on time], but I think [this process] puts forth the best candidates.”
With 55 candidates running for 7 positions, students who are elected have the opportunity to make a lasting difference in their class.
“Freshman year is a way to establish fundraising [for prom] and get the class together,” Licayan said. “If [students] use their position wisely, they can make an impact.”