March 29, 2024

Candidates sought for school board election

Papers must be filed between July 10 and August 3

At least one of the three school board seats up for election this year might wind up vacant if eligible electors don’t file their paperwork on time. According to the Office of the Iowa Secretary of State, interested candidates must file between Monday, July 10, and Thursday, August 3, in order to be considered.

“The last regular school board election, I think seats were uncontested,” said Barry Mateer, instructor at Southwestern Community College. “That will change with new law coming into effect by 2019. City elections will be at same time as School Board.”

Because multiple forms, included petitions adhering to a particular format, must be submitted together in order to file, potential candidates are encouraged to contact the school district secretary, county auditor or the Secretary of State’s website for detailed instructions.

As to who should run, being able to work with and respect a variety of viewpoints is essential to the role, as is simply showing up for the job. Potential candidates should strongly consider whether they have the time to attend two meetings a month, plus the occasional special session or workshop.

“As always, it is a great responsibility to serve,” said At-Large member Gerard Linskens. “Most important is maintaining the focus on what is best for the community and avoiding any personal goals… it is always a team decision. That is why we have seven board members.”

Linskens has served as board president in the past, though he took a step back last year and plans to transition away from his role.

“After serving eight years on this board, I will not run again. It will be time for someone else to serve,” he said, which leaves at least one space needing to be filled.

For more information, visit the Candidate's Guide to the School Election at https://sos.iowa.gov/elections/pdf/electioninfo/schoolcandguide.pdf or get in touch with the Clarke Community School District Secretary or County Auditor's Office.