Technology has been replacing and improving the traditional in many aspects of student life at Diamond Bar High School, from kiosks to new technology in classrooms. Now, the school’s voting system, which has caused controversy in past months, is receiving its long-awaited remodel.

To prevent any mistakes or misconduct throughout the procedure, voting will now be done online, through the school-issued Google accounts. Once voting begins, students will have a week to log on and place their votes. After the voting window closes, Technology Coordinator Randy Thomas and interim Activities Director Hilary Vernon will confirm the results, with interim Principal Guy Roubian overseeing the process.

“There is less human contact in the process now, with only the USB advisors and Mr. Thomas and I overseeing the whole thing. It’s just a much cleaner process and just allows for less chance of some shenanigans going on,” Roubian said.

One significant reason for this change is the misconduct last October during the USB Executive Board elections, during which two students were able to alter the votes in favor of a candidate.

While this event was not the sole reason for change in the system, it increased the need for change.

“There was no way we were going to do it the same way. When you have problems with things, those are great opportunities to look at something new, because now you’re motivated and there’s a good reason for it,” Roubian said.

Having students log into their accounts to vote on a Google Form, Thomas’s idea, ensures one vote per student and eliminates the possibility of submitting fake votes.

According to Thomas, students should already be familiar with how the Google accounts work, allowing for a smooth transition from the old system to the new.

If students don’t know their password for their school Google account, which is the same as that of their Blackboard account, they can find information on resetting the password on the DBHS webpage under the “Students” tab. Additionally, they can contact either their teachers or Thomas for help.

Although prom court voting has been occurring in rounds since March, the system will not be implemented until class officer elections in May because the process the administration had to undergo to create the new system was not begun in time for prom voting, according to Thomas. Should no issues arise, the administration is looking to implement the new system permanently. Regardless of additional changes to be made, the voting system will likely remain digital and in a fashion that allows students to vote individually.

“I don’t believe in going to a classroom and forcing every kid to vote. I really think it needs to mirror our nation’s voting process, which is if you want to vote you register and you go to the voting place,” Roubian said. “That ensures that the people voting have a sincere interest in a candidate.”