PLATFORM
IMPLEMENT A LOCAL CONSTITUTION CONTEST IN VJCL
Community Engagement, Local Competiton,
JCL Transparency, Access to Resources
Intro:
As the most recent winner of the National Local Constitution Contest at the National Junior Classical League Convention, I propose creating a contest that will be judged by the VJCL Parliamentarian with the assistance of the Co-Chairs.
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Plan:
This contest will judged the same way as the National Constitutional Contest has been. The due date will be around one month before the day of the convention.
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Goal:
While all state constitutions are displayed on the National Junior Classical League (NJCL) website, the Local Constitution Contest presents a unique opportunity for individual clubs to draft and submit their own constitutions. This contest encourages clubs to formally outline their organizational structure, rules, and procedures. Once submitted, these constitutions can be showcased on the Virginia Junior Classical League (VJCL) website in the documents section, providing a platform for clubs to share their governance models with a wider audience. This initiative not only fosters a sense of community and transparency but also serves as a valuable resource for other clubs seeking to develop or refine their own governing documents. The ultimate goal is to have every local chapter's governing documents presented on the VJCL website.
ENCOURAGE DIVERSITY WITHIN THE VJCL
Intro:
As a member of the JCL and a student of the Classics, I am aware of the privilege I have of being able to attend state and national conventions. However, I also recognize that some groups are underrepresented within the field of Classics.
Plan:
While the VJCL actively promotes diversity and inclusion within its membership, I propose establishing one to three scholarships to enable students to attend the Virginia State Convention at no cost or a significantly reduced rate. At the 2023 VJCL Convention, the total individual cost for a student was approx. $300. If different chapters within the VJCL held fun service events to raise money throughout the year, we could easily fund three students to attend the state convention for free. I would likely collaborate with the newly elected 2nd Vice President to help implement this initiative.
Goal:
Creating three scholarships focused on underrepresentation, inclusion, and financial difficulties would allow more students to participate in conventions and feel a greater sense of engagement within the VJCL community. Additionally, one of the Parliamentarian's responsibilities is to increase the number of pre-filed candidates for elections. By including more members, we create a stronger pool of potential candidates for office.
Increase Election Numbers, Access to Resources, Volunteer Programs, Social Responsibility
Info on the Procedures of the Election Process
Intro:
The election process of the Virginia Junior Classical League (VJCL) may seem intimidating and exhausting for both candidates and voting delegates. However, my experience proved otherwise! When I ran for VJCL Historian last year from off the floor due to a state of emergency, I initially feared the process would be overwhelming. To my pleasant surprise, everyone was incredibly kind and supportive, making the experience much more positive than I had anticipated. If the process was showcased a little more clearly and palatably there would probably be more pre-filed candidate turnout.
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Plan:
The VJCL Executive Board currently uses Instagram, GroupMe, and especially Google Classroom to share important information with VJCL members. While parliamentarians are able to express their desire for as many candidates to run as possible, it would be easier for a possible candidate to actually see the process in action. In addition to the current VJCL Parliamentarian, Josh Kolm's, comprehensive candidate guide; it would be wonderful for the officers to explain on video what each officer does, as well as the general procedures of an election. This can easily be filmed and uploaded on YouTube with the supervision of the Co-Chairs.
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Increase Election Numbers, Access to Resources,
EASIER ACCESS TO SUGGESTING AMENDMENTS
Access to Resources, JCL Transperancy
Intro:
One of the key responsibilities of the VJCL Parliamentarian is to ensure that the state constitution remains relevant and up-to-date. This involves reviewing the constitution regularly and proposing necessary amendments to address changes in the organization. Additionally, the Parliamentarian oversees the proper proposal and voting process for any amendments suggested by VJCL members.
According to the VJCL Manual, "Throughout the school year, any amendment to the VJCL constitution must be presented at least 21 days prior to an Executive Board meeting and may be passed by a two-thirds vote of the Executive Board. Once approved, the amendment is then presented to the Executive Council for a final vote, requiring a two-thirds majority of all VJCL chapters for passage." This structured process ensures that amendments are thoroughly considered and have broad support before being implemented, maintaining the integrity and inclusivity of the organization’s governance.
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Plan & Goal:
As outlined in the VJCL Manual, a member must submit their proposed amendment to the Parliamentarian at least 21 days before the Executive Board meeting. However, I believe there should be a more accessible method for submitting proposed amendments. This could include creating an online submission portal, making the process more efficient and user-friendly. By simplifying the submission process, we can encourage greater participation and ensure that all members have the opportunity to contribute to the organization's growth and development.​