Every year, students have the opportunity to campaign for the positions of secretary, vice president and president of the student government. But the process isn’t perfect, as problems prevent it from becoming something that’s truly effective.

That’s not to say that the elections are inherently broken, as they offer a taste of real world democracy and encourage students to become active members in the community. What we need is a change in the student body’s attitude toward the election process.

The first problem is the most widely recognized: elections are often decided on the comedic value of the candidate’s speech instead of his qualifications or ideas. A candidate can completely circumvent policies with jokes that quickly win over the crowd. Humorous anecdotes in a speech are not inherently wrong, as it keeps the attention of an easily bored crowd, but they should complement the person instead of define him.

The school already screens speeches to prevent out-of-line comments, but that doesn’t stop a candidate from littering the speech with uncensored jokes to win over the crowd.

Aside from the speech, there are other ways to get to know a candidate before Election Day. Personal interviews are sent out the week of the election and offer a detailed look into the background and priorities of candidates. These interviews provide more substance than a five-minute address. Yet, students rarely recognize this opportunity and instead rely on the speech to make their judgments.

Director of Student Activities Mr. Tony Plein proposes an interesting idea. Before the election, we could have a “meet the candidates” event during activity period or after school that allows students to ask candidates questions and talk to them on a more personal level. Not only would discussions clarify the candidates’ priorities, but they would also give voters a firsthand look at their personalities.

More seriously, some students just don’t have the work ethic necessary to get things done. Student government continually works on projects and events including fundraisers, school mixers, blood drives, dances, Spartanfest, Mission Week, the recent Culture Fest and more. Some of the candidates lack the organizational skills or dedication to the time commitment, because they ran for the title and not to improve the school.

Requirements in place are loose and easily ignored. Not having these restrictions allows for a variety of candidates, which helps create a well-rounded student government but is only successful if students consider candidates’ work ethic. Perhaps the academic requirements are a little too lenient. Officers who don’t have to worry about low grades can commit more time to larger projects.

Student government is a great part of our community, and if we want it to be successful, we have to take the selection process seriously. Don’t just think of it as a popularity contest. Take time to learn the candidates before you vote, and make decisions you think will lead to the betterment of the school.