We need to fix the schools and we can’t do it without you. Please step up to the Plate and Run for a Board Seat- It isn’t as hard as you think!
As we have seen over the past two years, Boards of Education have tremendous influence in deciding school policy, curriculum and managing finances.
Last year, we promoted a group of candidates that support parental rights and many of them won seats, but our work is nowhere near done.
Some people think being on a Board requires an advanced degree, experience in education, or having lots of free time.
Sure all of these things might help but they are NOT required at all.
School Board candidates do need to meet certain qualifications like being a US Citizen, a taxpayer in the municipality for at least a year, and not having a lengthy criminal record. You can read the full requirements here.
You can expect to spend about 10 hours a month volunteering to this position for a term of three years. If you are someone who goes to every Board meeting ANYWAYS, you are already investing 70% of the time commitment needed.
What can you do?
1. Find out how many seats are up for election this November on your Board.
2. Identify candidates or get a group to run together.
3. Contact your County Clerk’s office and get the necessary paperwork to run as an individual or file a joint petition (this is not complicated; usually a 2 page form and collecting 10 signatures)
4. Support and promote those candidates leading up to the election (CAC will promote you too!)
Another way to get on a school board is when unexpected vacancies arise. Maybe a member resigns or moves away. The Board will put out a call for interested candidates and conduct interviews. Then the Board votes on the candidates, appointing a new member.
You will still need to meet the requirements to qualify.
Did you know that last year 156 seats in the state had no candidates at all on the ballot? The reason so many Board members stay on for so long is because very few people run for school board and incumbents often run unopposed.
Taking back our schools starts with taking back our School Boards.
If you're interested but you are still unsure, Arise NJ hosts a monthly Candidate Session to answer questions and help you run. For these dates and meeting details, visit their Facebook page 'Events' tab.