How to Run for School Board: 4 Steps for 2025

You care about your community, your schools, and your kids’ futures. Maybe you've seen decisions being made that don’t reflect what students or teachers really need. Maybe you're frustrated with how disconnected the system feels. If you’re wondering how to run for school board and make a real difference, you’re in the right place.

Across the country, there are 13,024 public school districts governed by roughly 82,600 school board members. These are ordinary people who decided to step up: parents, neighbors, and educators. Running for school board is unique from many other races, too. In fact, more than 90% of school board races are non-partisan, which means the focus isn’t on party lines. It’s on people, ideas, and community.

If you’ve ever wondered how to get involved or felt called to lead, this guide will walk you through exactly how to run for school board, from eligibility and filing to campaigning and winning.

What Is a School Board?

A school board is a group of elected people who oversee and guide decisions on public schools in their community. School boards are responsible for specific districts and handle various tasks, like choosing a superintendent and making budgetary decisions. While superintendents and school staff manage daily operations, the school board shapes the long-term vision, policies, and priorities for education in your area.

School boards typically:

• Hire and evaluate the superintendent

• Approve and oversee the district’s budget

• Set goals for academic achievement

• Establish policies that govern school operations

• Listen to and represent the concerns of the community

Ultimately, school boards help decide what students learn, how schools are run, and where resources go. They’re essential to the quality and equity of public education.

And since school board elections are non-partisan, you won’t see party labels next to candidates’ names on the ballot. Voters choose based on platforms, values, and trust rather than party affiliation. The non-partisan nature of school boards makes them uniquely able to focus on community needs instead of party politics, and it creates a unique opportunity for candidates who want to serve their community without navigating partisanship.

Why Run for School Board?

School board members are neighbors, parents, teachers, and community advocates who believe that local schools should serve everyone fairly and effectively.

Some reasons you may decide to run for school board include:

• You want to make a difference. If you’re passionate about education, equity, or student well-being, the school board is one of the best places to create real, lasting change.

• You bring a unique perspective. Whether you’re a parent, an educator, or just someone who’s deeply invested in your community, your lived experience matters, and broader representation on school boards can help shape policies that reflect your district’s actual needs.

• You’re ready to lead locally. Local elections like school board races are often low-cost and have low turnout, and a large number of these races go uncontested. In fact, 74% of local races, like school board, ran uncontested in 2024 in the United States. If you show up prepared with a clear message and community support, you could be the breath of fresh air your community is looking for.

• You’ve had enough. Many people run because they’re frustrated by the status quo: overcrowded classrooms, underfunded programs, book bans, or a lack of transparency in decision-making. Running for school board gives you a seat at the table and a voice in the conversation.

If you care deeply about students, families, and your community, you don’t need to wait for someone else to make things better. You can start now.

How to Become a School Board Member in 4 Steps 

So, you're ready to make a difference in your local schools, but where do you start? Becoming a school board member might seem complicated, but it’s more achievable than most people realize. 

These four steps will walk you through how to get on the ballot, connect with your community, and run a campaign that works.

Step #1: Do Your Research 

A good place to start your research is reviewing some of the most commonly asked questions about running for school board. By knowing these details, you’ll understand if you’re eligible, who your potential voters are, and key information about your role if elected.

Who Is Eligible to Run for School Board? 

While eligibility requirements may vary slightly depending on your state and district, the typical basic eligibility requirements are:

• Be a U.S. citizen

• Be at least 18 years old

• Be a resident and registered voter in the school district

• Have no felony convictions on your record

• Be physically and mentally capable of serving in public office 

• Not be currently employed by the school district

Bear in mind these are general requirements, and your specific district may have further stipulations, such as term limits or exceptions for some school district employees. 

Can a Teacher Run for School Board?

Generally, teachers are not allowed to run for school board in their district since this would be a direct conflict of interest. However, some districts may have exceptions and allow teachers to serve in an advisory or non-voting capacity. 

If you’re a teacher interested in running for school board, you can either: 

• Resign from your position before taking office

• Run in a different district than you teach, if that district allows you

• Check if a non-voting or advisory role is an option 

Who Votes for School Board Members?

School board members are typically voted in by qualified voters in their communities. Qualified voters may vary slightly by district or state, but most qualified voters are: 

• Registered voters

• Residents of the district

• At least 18 years old 

These are the people you’ll be looking to win over in your bid for school board. 

How Long Do School Board Members Serve?

School board members may serve anywhere from two to six years, depending on their district. The difference in term length can vary within states, too, so it’s important to check with your specific district to learn how long the term will be. 

Some examples of school board member term lengths are:

• Some districts in Florida and Texas have two-year terms for school board members.

• Some New York districts have three-year terms, but others may have five-year terms.

• California and Michigan usually have four-year terms for school board members. 

• Some Pennsylvania districts have six-year terms.  

Your district may also have a term limit. For instance, school board members in certain Connecticut districts are limited to two consecutive terms, and others may limit you to serving for only one four-year term. 

LEARN MORE: Use GoodParty.org’s election look-up tool to find the term length of school board members in your district.

Do School Board Members Get Paid?

Unfortunately, civic service is sometimes a thankless job. While it depends on the state and district, many school board members serve in a volunteer capacity. However, districts may have some funds available for stipends or per-diem pay, like getting paid a small sum per meeting. Additionally, school board members may have salaries in some major districts, such as Los Angeles and Rochester, New York.

When Is the Filing Deadline and Election Date to Run for School Board?

Your filing deadline to run for school board will depend on your state, district, and election date. 

A general guideline for when you need to file is: 

• You typically need to file between December and January of the previous year for spring elections in April or May.

• You typically need to file between May and August of the election year for fall elections in November.

You can use our election look-up tool to find upcoming school board elections near you. Once you’ve located your district, you’ll be able to see the election date, filing deadline, and more details for your area’s next school board race.

Once you know when you need to file and when the election is, you can begin planning your campaign.

Step #2: Start Planning Your Path to Victory 

Winning a school board seat can be difficult, so it’s important to show up with a plan.

Follow these three essential steps to plan your campaign the right way:

Craft Your Message

School board races are typically non-partisan, which means you need to focus your message and platform around what matters locally: your schools, your students, and your community. Talking to friends, family, and parents can help you gain the insights you need:

• Are parents feeling unheard? 

• Are teachers under-supported? 

• Are students lacking resources? 

Listen to your community, then shape your message around their needs — not political talking points. Your authenticity can be your superpower here.

LEARN MORE: Learn how to craft a compelling message to power your Independent campaign.

Build Your Team

Although you may not need a massive campaign staff to win, you do need some people in your corner. Think about friends, family, and neighbors who believe in you and want better for your schools. Even a small but dedicated team can take you far.

And remember: your tools matter. Free and low-cost tools, like GoodParty.org, can relieve stress by helping you with press releases, campaign texting, yard signs, and social media presence. 

Think About the Money

Money is often the most complicated and pivotal piece of a political campaign. While running for school board is typically more affordable than state or federal races, it still costs money. 

A good place to start when planning your school board bid is by figuring out what you can realistically contribute yourself. 

Then, begin making a fundraising and financial management plan: 

• Think of fundraising events you could host, such as a neighborhood BBQ or online fundraiser.

• Consider local supporters who may be interested in donating.

• Look for ways to cut costs by using online tools, printing materials in bulk, or partnering with local businesses for event space. 

• Open a campaign bank account to keep your money straight. 

Don’t be afraid to spend where it matters, though. Things that can help you connect better with your voters and get your message across are typically worth the price, so be scrappy, be strategic, and keep track of your receipts. You’ll need them later.

Step #3: Handle the Filing and Paperwork

Filing paperwork is likely the least exciting part of running any campaign, but it’s one of the most important. Any misstep in paperwork could get you disqualified, so there’s a lot of pressure to get it right. But also, once you’ve filed, the excitement begins: you’re actually doing it! 

Just like eligibility requirements, filing rules vary depending on your state and school district. But most places follow a similar playbook. You’ll likely need to submit:

• Declaration of Candidacy: A simple form that announces your intent to run for a specific school board seat. Some districts require it to be notarized, so check with your local election office early.

• Financial Disclosure Forms: Most school board candidates are required to disclose any financial interests that might conflict with their duties. These forms also often include naming a campaign treasurer and committing to report all campaign donations.

• Background Check: Some districts require a basic criminal history check or a signed statement affirming you haven’t been convicted of certain offenses. 

• Nominating Petition: In some districts, you’ll need to collect signatures from registered voters to qualify for the ballot. The number can vary from a handful to several hundred, depending on your area. However, signature gathering is also a great way to start meeting voters face-to-face. Additionally, keep in mind that some states have strict formatting rules for petitions, so check with your local election office to make sure they’re done correctly.

Step #4: Run Your School Board Campaign 

Once your paperwork is filed and your name is officially on the ballot, it’s go time. So how do you run a campaign that stands out, inspires confidence, and builds momentum? Start with a clear message, show up consistently, and never underestimate the power of face-to-face connection.

LEARN MORE: Don’t miss anything with the help of our political campaign checklist.

Build Your Message Around Students, Not Slogans

At its core, your campaign should answer three big questions:

• Why are you running?

• What do you believe public education should provide?

• How will you help students and schools succeed?

This is your core message that guides every conversation, speech, and piece of campaign literature. Keep it clear, keep it local, and keep it real. 

Creating a simple, memorable campaign brand with a logo, a color scheme, and a few key phrases or values will help people recognize and remember you. Then, use that branding to build your campaign assets, like lawn signs and a campaign website. Even a basic site with your photo, bio, platform, upcoming events, and a donation link can make a huge difference. It gives people a place to learn more and, more importantly, a reason to believe in you.

Engage the Community (Because It’s Their School Board, Too)

You don’t need a million-dollar ad campaign to run for school board. All you need to do is show up for your community.

Some grassroots tactics that actually work to win school board elections include:

• Attend School Board Meetings: This is one of the best ways to understand the dynamics, the hot-button issues, and the current board’s leadership style. It also shows voters you’re already involved.

• Knock on Doors: Nothing beats face-to-face conversations. Canvassing might sound old school, but it’s still one of the most effective tools for building name recognition and trust.

• Go Where People Already Gather: Think farmers' markets, PTA meetings, school plays, football games, and community events. The more you connect with voters where they are, the more likely they are to remember (and vote for) you.

• Build a Volunteer Squad: Even a handful of dedicated helpers can expand your reach. They can put up signs, pass out flyers, manage social media, or host small meet-and-greets.

The most important step to winning voters, though, is knowing your district. Every community has unique challenges and priorities. Do your homework on school budgets, staffing, transportation issues, curriculum debates, or facilities needs. The better you understand your community, the more solutions you can offer.

Fundraise for Your Campaign 

While school board campaigns are typically cheaper than more high-visibility state and national elections, you’ll still need to raise some funds. 

Some ways to get started are:

• Make It Easy to Give: Set up an online donation form through your campaign website and share the link everywhere.

• Host Purposeful Events: Things like a backyard barbecue, a town hall at the library, or a “coffee with the candidate” can raise money and build relationships. Keep it simple, welcoming, and focused on listening.

• Build a Strategy Around Digital Outreach: Start collecting emails and phone numbers from day one. Email newsletters can inform your supporters of fundraising goals and upcoming events, and short text messages with links to donate or volunteer can help people get involved and fuel your campaign. (Learn how to get free text messages for your Independent campaign!)

Stay consistent. If people don’t hear from you, they’re less likely to show up or give.

LEARN MORE: Get the inside scoop on political fundraising. 

Tips for Winning a School Board Bid from Previous Winners 

Running for school board might be new territory for you, but it’s not uncharted. Many candidates have walked this path before, and their experiences offer powerful insight into what actually works on the campaign trail. We spoke to former school board candidates nationwide to hear their best advice — what helped them connect with voters, stand out in crowded races, and ultimately win. 

Here are three of the top takeaways: 

#1: Meet Your Community’s Needs

School boards are typically non-partisan, so voters can’t vote down the ticket on party lines. You have to tailor your message and campaign to their needs if you want to win them over. 

By planning ahead and focusing her campaign around what her community needed, Jennifer Hutchinson made history, becoming the first African American to win a citywide election in Rock Hill, South Carolina. 

“I think the best advice that I could give to someone is to write out a plan and make sure that you think about your community and what your community wants to see in that plan,” Hutchinson said about her historic school board win. 

By keeping her community in mind, Rowena Chiu also won her school board bid in Palo Alto, California. Chiu started the race as the underdog, but she managed to pull ahead in the second half of the campaign by speaking to voters' real and unheard concerns. 

“It just happened that my policy hit a raw nerve that people in this district have felt was underrepresented for a while,” said Chiu.

#2: Knocking on Doors Makes a Difference

In our digital age, it can sometimes feel like texts and emails would be the most impactful way to reach voters. But talking to people in person is still a highly effective way to get your message out. Going door-to-door and meeting your community can help them know your name and face better, building trust in your platform. 

According to Robin Brown, door-knocking was a pivotal aspect of her school board campaign in Prince George’s County, Maryland. In addition to going door-to-door herself, she also got her family involved: 

“My kids were canvassing as well. My husband was canvassing. My aunts were canvassing. Anybody who was related to me, who can speak on my behalf, was canvassing with me,” Brown said. “I think that really solidified my win, honestly.”

A school board member from California, Christiaan VandenHeuvel, also found door-knocking to make a real difference in his campaign. The feedback he heard from the voters he met built his own confidence in his potential to win:

“I started meeting voters, talking with them, and hearing them going, ‘Yes, I've heard about you. You're the person that we all support here. We've got five voters in this house, and we're all voting for you.’” About receiving supportive remarks directly from voters, VandenHeuvel said, ”When you hear that over and over again, it makes you go, ‘Okay, wait, this could actually happen.’”

#3: Make Your Campaign Unique to You

In a non-partisan election, voters aren’t voting for your party. They’re voting for you. So it’s important to find ways to make your campaign unique to you and your beliefs. 

In South Bend, Indiana, Marcus Ellison relied on uniqueness and creativity to power his campaign to victory. Worried about getting lost amongst the mailers and yard signs for federal elections, Ellison decided to focus on standing out, and it worked. 

“Some of what I did was try to come up with a unique yard sign which I thought would help me stand out a lot,” Ellison said. “I got a lot of positive feedback about that.” 

Ellison won his campaign with more votes than all but one other candidate. 

Your Campaign, Your Community — With GoodParty.org’s Help

When you step up to run for school board, you're helping shape the future of education in your community. You’re giving a voice to students, parents, teachers, and neighbors who want better.

GoodParty.org is here to help you run for school board every step of the way. Our free, non-partisan tools make it easier to plan, organize, fundraise, and connect with voters without selling out or spending a fortune. Whether you're looking for campaign texting tools, messaging support, or just a roadmap to get started, we've got you covered.

This isn’t about politics as usual. This is about people and the schools that serve them. So take the leap, run your race, and bring your vision to the ballot. Your community is counting on you — and with the right tools and support, you can win.

Photo by Nathan Dumlao on Unsplash