Torch: U.S. LXIX Winter 2019 | Page 13

Elections

At the beginning of your term, calendar important dates.

State parliamentarians play an important role at NJCL Convention, make plans early to attend convention and prepare for your duties there.

Sometimes, the worst comes to pass. Be prepared for the removal or replacement of an officer, just in case.

Know Robert’s Rules of Order and be ready to advise the board on procedure during meetings.

Take full advantage of support from your sponsor and state chairs.

Be ready to help out your board, and know when to ask for some help from another officer.

Procedures and Working with Your Board

Put in the effort to reach out to people who you think would make good officers—you never know who just needs that extra push.

Print your ballots beforehand if you can, as it will save you a lot of time and stress when you need to start the voting.

Accessibility is key. Candidates can’t pre-file if they don’t know what offices are available or where to sign up.

Constitution

Ensure that you know your constitution best because as Parliamentarian, you’ll be the primary authority on it.

Don’t be afraid to discuss potential amendments with other officers or even Parliamentarians from other states.

Tricky Issues

Jack Purple

VJCL Parlimentarian 2018-2919

How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Constitution

As a freshman in high school, I became my local chapter’s parliamentarian. I had some experience with parliamentary procedure beforehand, but I also had plenty to learn. Since that time, I have learned several things that have helped with my job. Here is what I wish I had known when I started:

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