WHAT’S NEXT

Every individual interviewed—regardless of whether they or the candidates they supported won or lost—said building lasting community support for public education was important, but extremely challenging. Using social media to keep the community aware of board actions, positive stories about students and/or teachers, and other issues related to a school district was viewed as the best approach between local elections. Engaging parents and other community members on an ongoing basis shows sitting board members that the community has their backs and also helps individuals interested in becoming a candidate for school board in knowing their efforts are likely to be supported by the community.

Cultivating candidates is viewed by most to be an ongoing endeavor. Individuals that might have an interest should be encouraged to volunteer on school district committees or engage with parent advocacy  groups. Identifying needed representation or board expertise is helpful when reaching out to community groups regarding potential candidates. Having incumbent board members participate in candidate recruitment is helpful because they can speak about the personal reward of serving on a board, as well as time commitment, and what it means to participate in a campaign (canvassing, fundraising, and sticking to the campaign plan).

Is running for school board worth the time and financial commitments? All of those interviewed spoke to the rewards of serving on a school board in terms of fostering improved student educational opportunities and performance, giving back to the communities in which they and their children live, and supporting a school environment that enables recruitment and retention of stellar educational professionals that focus on developing every child to their fullest potential. Whether or not they won their race, all would urge other parents and community members to run and serve, describing their school board service as one of most important things they’ve done. Students benefit when there is a strong and effective school board that understands the value of public education and the role of governance.