School Election Information

School Election Dates

Michigan Election law (MCL 168.642c) stipulates that school board elections must be held in November of even years. (This change took effect 12-1-2012) All other federal, state, county, city, township, and school elections are restricted to the following four dates each year.

First Tuesday after the first Monday in:

  • May
  • August
  • November

Exceptions

Exceptions are provided for:

  • Special elections called under the State Legislature
  • School districts, intermediate school districts and community college districts that wish to present a millage proposal, bond proposal or a proposal to borrow funds on a date other than one of the four “fixed” election dates

Running for School Board

Individuals who are interested in running for a School Board position will need to contact the respective School in which they are a registered voter.

The Superintendent’s office will know the following information:

  • Number of board positions to be elected
  • If the positions are partial term or full term
  • Length of terms: Two year, four year, six year

How to File

All forms are available  and must be filed at the County Clerk's office in the St. Joseph Courthouse.

What forms are required to file:

  • School Board Candidates Affidavit of Identity and Receipt of Filing Form.
  • Statement of Organization Form for Candidate / Committee (Campaign Finance Form).
    • Submitted by:
      • Candidates in districts where the student population is over 2,400.
      • Candidates who spend or receive more than $1,000 in contributions.
  • School nominating petition form with required signatures 
  • OR
  • Candidates seeking a school board position may file a $100.00 nonrefundable fee in lieu of a petition.

Beginning in 2014, the filing deadline for candidates has changed it is now due 15 weeks before the date of the election.