The 2023 School Board Elections are just around the corner, creating an opportunity for citizens with the best interest of local students at heart to step up and make a positive impact on our local schools. With three seats up for election this year, this is a chance for community members to contribute their insights and expertise to the vital task of guiding the town's educational direction.
Key Dates to Remember:
Aug. 28: Candidate filing begins. Aspiring school board members can officially declare their candidacy starting from this date.
Sept. 21: Candidate filing deadline by 5 p.m. All interested candidates must file their applications by this date to be eligible for the elections.
Sept. 26: Candidate withdrawal deadline by 5 p.m. Candidates have until this date to withdraw their candidacy by filing a written request with the school secretary.
Nov. 7: School election day. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., providing ample time for community members to cast their votes.
Nov. 13 or 14: Tier 1 canvass of votes for all school districts: The first Monday or Tuesday after the election, unless these dates fall on a legal holiday, in which case it will be pushed back by a day.
Nov. 20 or 21: Tier 2 canvass of votes for districts spanning multiple counties: The second Monday or Tuesday after the election, with adjustments for legal holidays.
Dates Vary: The organizational meeting, a critical event where the newly elected board organizes for the upcoming term. This meeting takes place before the first regular meeting following the final canvass.
Potential candidates should keep in mind the nomination signature requirements, which involve obtaining signatures from eligible voters of the school district. Candidates should consult with the School Board Secretary as to the minimum number of signatures needed.
Being a school board member demands dedication and commitment. Board members are expected to attend regular meetings, review materials outside of meetings, engage with the public, and participate in school activities to stay informed and engaged. Additionally, staying up-to-date with education trends, legal requirements, and effective governance practices is essential.
Responsibilities of school board members encompass setting policy in alignment with state and federal laws, establishing goals for the Superintendent and evaluating their performance, overseeing employment processes, monitoring the district's financial health, and maintaining transparent communication with the public and media in accordance with Iowa's Open Records Law.
Candidates participating in the elections will be required to comply with campaign laws, including filing disclosure reports, and adhering to ethical and legal guidelines, particularly regarding conflicts of interest.
For more detailed information about the election process, responsibilities, and campaign regulations, please visit www.ia-sb.org/getonboard.
