Frequently asked questions about the Annual School Election

What will voters decide in the New Jersey’s Annual School Election?

On April 18, registered voters will be able to select school board members to oversee their public school system. Voters will also approve or reject the proposed school district budget.

What does the local school board do?

The local board of education is the governance and policy-setting body for the local school district. New Jersey’s local boards of education consist of unpaid lay representatives of the community. The board does not run the district on a day-to-day basis; that is the job of the superintendent and administration. Rather, the board sets the educational goals for the district. It establishes policies in all areas of district operation, ranging from curriculum and student discipline to personnel and the use of school buildings. It evaluates the superintendent, and represents the community during contract negotiations with school district employees. And the school board must approve the school district’s budget that is presented to voters.

What happens if voters reject a school budget?

The budget question is a simple yes or no proposal, asking voters if they approve spending a certain amount of locally raised revenue to support district operations for the coming fiscal year. If voters reject the proposed budget, they are essentially calling for a second review of the spending plan—by the municipal governing body. After reviewing the school budget, the municipal officials may leave it intact or they may call for cuts.

How do I learn about the candidates and budget in my community?

Registered voters will receive a sample ballot listing the candidates and questions on the April 18 ballot. Citizens can also find information about the candidates and the budget through other sources. By law, the proposed budget must be published in a local newspaper and the school board must hold a public hearing on the spending plan.

Local newspapers generally write articles about the school district’s proposed budget, and they often publish profiles of the candidates and their platforms. In addition, community groups, such as parent organizations and the League of Women Voters, often sponsor candidates’ nights to let citizens hear firsthand the views of prospective school board members. Sometimes, these debates are broadcast on public-access cable television.

How important is it for citizens to vote in the Annual School Election?

The men and women whom citizens select to serve on their local school board will help shape the education program for the children of the community. The board of education is ultimately responsible for ensuring that students have adequate facilities, curriculum and teaching staff. Also consider the fact that budget which is proposed by the school board—and acted on by the voters—has a direct impact on the quality of education and the quality of life in your community.

When and where do I vote?

By law, polls will be open from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on April 18. However, most school districts schedule additional hours. For exact polling hours and locations in your community, contact your local board of education office or refer to the sample ballot that you will receive in the mail.