Changes in ASB elections will allow students outside ASB to run for leadership positions

Starting in the upcoming ASB elections, eligible students outside of ASB will be able to run for leadership positions. 

Students eligible to run for Executive President or Vice President must have a minimum of two years of a leadership role in another organization in Samo, such as captain of a sports team or editor of the yearbook, as well as being at least an incoming junior or senior. To run for Class President or Class Vice President, at least one year of leadership is required. In previous years, only students who took ASB would be able to engage in leadership positions. 

Some further requirements to run for one of these positions include submitting four teacher and advisor recommendations, as well as the pre-established requisites which include having no more than 18 unexcused classes or period absences, maintaining a minimum of an unweighted 2.5 GPA and to not be on academic probation. 

Stefani Tovar, the Student Activities Director, talks about how these changes were inspired by the lack of inclusivity in ASB leadership positions. They wanted to address that students often have full schedules, and cannot take on another class.  

“The decision to make these changes was driven by a desire for a more inclusive and competitive process that recognizes leadership in various forms,” Tovar said. “The goal is to address the challenge of closed opportunities for students joining a college-bound elective in high school.” 

If a student wins their election campaign, they will have to join ASB in the following year to properly take on their new leadership role. Some of these leadership positions that students can partake in include all of the executive positions, such as President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer and Student Member of the Board. There are also class cabinets with the same positions. 

Tovar explains that the overall goal is to add more community to the school, and she hopes having a diverse variety of leaders will tie it all together. 

“The aim is to gather diverse perspectives to enhance programs and events, fostering a stronger connection among our students and creating a more supportive, inclusive environment on campus.” Tovar said.