Residents thinking about a run for their local board of education will soon have a chance to learn what the job really involves.
The Four County School Boards Association is hosting a Virtual Seminar for Prospective School Board Members on Saturday, March 7, from 9 to 11 a.m. The seminar will be held via Zoom and is open to the public at no cost.
Organizers say the session is designed for anyone curious about serving on a school board, as well as community members who want a better understanding of how boards operate. School board elections across the region will take place Tuesday, May 19.
The seminar will cover the roles and responsibilities of board members, the board-superintendent relationship, and how boards address key issues facing school districts. Topics also include communicating with the public, legislative and advocacy work, and the skills needed to serve effectively.
A panel will lead the discussion and answer questions. Panelists include veteran school board members, a new board member, a superintendent, legislative committee members, and a legal representative.
Presenters will also explain the process for becoming a candidate. To qualify, a school board candidate must be a U.S. citizen, at least 18 years old, able to read and write, a resident of the school district for at least one year prior to the election, and not employed by the district or related to a current board member. Nominating petitions must be filed at least 30 days before the election, or 20 days for small cities.
Registration is required to receive the Zoom meeting link. Interested participants can register online at fourcountysba.org under Current Events or by emailing their name, district, and contact information to [email protected]. Organizers ask that participants register by Friday, March 6.
The seminar is offered as a free public service and is open to residents across the Four County School Boards Association region, which includes more than 20 school districts.
