You can run for local office: school board

There are over 89,000 local governments throughout the United States. When we say, “You can run for office,” — we mean it. There’s an office out there where you can have a huge impact, and it’s probably right in your own backyard!

Our local governments are important. They literally keep the lights on — working directly with residents to manage the day to day concerns of the town, county, or city. Local positions are perfect for anyone who wants to serve their community and gain experience with state and federal funding or policy.

Over the next several weeks, we’ll be spotlighting individual local offices; why to run for them, responsibilities of the job, and more.

Let’s get started!

Do you believe that every student K-12 should have access to a quality public education that prepares them for the future? If so, you might be interested in running for school board.

The good news is you don’t need to be an education policy expert to run — school board members (including school district, board of education, or school committee) are everyday people. We’ve seen all types of folks run for school board, from teachers to concerned parents to young people looking to make a difference in their community.

What does a school board member do?

• Establishes a vision and expectations for the school district
• Hires and evaluates the superintendent
• Sets policy and budgets for the school district
• Monitors the progress of students’ success
• Oversees salary negotiations between teachers and staff

School board members are the elected officials who set the direction for our students and public schools. Effective school board members consider the community as a whole while setting policy and allocating funds throughout their district.

Why might you run for school board?

• Are students being given equal opportunities and resources at each school?
• Is the current board working well with the superintendent?
• Are teachers and staff being paid fair wages?

There are many reasons to run for school board. What’s important is that you are interested in engaging with residents to set a vision for schools that represent all members of the community’s diverse values.

Who runs for the school board?

• Trick question! Anyone who meets the legal requirements can run!

Many EMILY’s List candidates got their start in politics by serving on their local school board. Before winning her race for Virginia House of Delegates this past year, Shelly Simonds was a former educator who served on the Newport News School Board.

Join the Run to Win Facebook community to find school board candidates and learn more about running for the office. You’ll find advice from women who’ve run in the past, are currently running, or are also thinking about running one day.

The bottom line: If you want to support our students and schools, consider a run for school board.