school board elections

Indiana's new laws allow school board candidates to run under partisan labels, with 524 candidates choosing party affiliations (72% Republican, 6% Democrat, 7% independent). The impact of partisan labels on school board dynamics and funding decisions remains unclear, as debates highlight differing views within parties and the nonpartisan nature of school governance.

The Los Angeles City Council removed a ballot proposal that would have allowed non-citizens to vote in council and school board elections, citing the need for further review. A second proposal to expand council authority over the police department was also withdrawn and will be reconsidered by a committee. Both measures were initially approved for the November ballot in a 10-5 vote.

The LA City Council voted 10-5 to propose a charter amendment that could grant non-citizens the right to vote in city and school board elections. The amendment would allow future city leaders to implement this change, potentially enabling illegal aliens to participate in local elections by 2028.

The LA City Council has taken a major step toward allowing noncitizens to vote in city and school board elections. Voters may soon decide on this potential change.

Indiana school board elections this year will feature new partisan labels for candidates and potential tax increase referendums. A panel discussion on July 8 at the Indiana History Center will explore these changes and their impact on students, featuring experts from Ball State University, the Indiana School Boards Association, and Indianapolis Public Schools.

Students nationwide are using protests, lawsuits, and advocacy to demand a voice in educational decisions after feeling ignored by school systems. Examples include mass sick-outs in Houston, coordinated walkouts in Georgia, and legal challenges in Kentucky, reflecting a shift in how students engage with institutions.

Philadelphia City Council Education Committee Chair Isaiah Thomas proposes switching the school board from mayor-appointed to elected, a process requiring state legislation, mayor approval, and voter consent. The change could shift power dynamics by granting the board taxing authority and reducing City Council's influence, amid public backlash over 17 school closures and a $300 million budget shortfall.

The Supreme Court's decision in Louisiana v. Callais weakened the Voting Rights Act, complicating efforts to challenge at-large school board elections that often hinder minority representation. Legal experts warn this could reduce minority representation on school boards, as conservative groups prepare to challenge existing voting rights laws and past settlements.