How to Run for School Board

If you are passionate about education and have the time to be involved, consider running for the local school board. School board members are composed of 3,5, or 7 members and meet monthly to decide on personnel, budget, and policy issues. School board members, above all, are committed to collaboration with fellow board members, parents, teachers, school staff, and administration in order to create the optimal learning environment for students.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Support from the local community
• Time to attend monthly meetings
• Funding to campaign (may not be necessary in some areas)
• An understanding of issues in education

1. Find out if a seat is opening on your local school board. This usually happens in November.

2. Check the qualifications for candidates through the county elections office. Usually candidates should be at least 21 years of age, live in the school district, and be a registered voter.

3. Determine the cost of campaign. Some campaigns may cost a few hundred dollars to register; however, those in popular areas may cost several thousand for a successful advertising campaign. State laws usually require reporting of campaign finances.

4. File a "declaration" of candidacy form, usually with the local county elections office. Often a small filing fee is required along with a supporting nomination signatures of citizens in the school district. This form is usually due several months before the election.

Tips & Warnings

• Talk to current or past school board members about the time and commitment the position requires.
• This position is not to be taken lightly. It is usually a four year term and requires a strong commitment to education.
• Qualifications and commitments vary in each state.

Resources

• National School Boards Association
• School Board Leadership in California Schools
• Pennsylvania School Board Association
• School Board Campaigns
• School Board Election and Campaign Handbook for Illinois