Filing Deadline For Madison Board Of Education Nears

MADISON, NJ — The deadline for submitting nominating petitions to run for the Madison school board in the November general election is July 25 at 4 p.m.

The local school board elections have heated up in recent years, becoming much more politicized last year as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The school board makes important community decisions such as hiring administrators and handling property tax money. Until 2012, all school boards held elections in April, when a state law was passed allowing districts to switch to the November general election.

Those considering serving on the school board can take advantage of NJSBA's online briefings that provide details about the responsibilities of serving on a local board of education. NJSBA's online briefings include three videos that address leadership, legal issues and the role of a board member.

“The work of a school board has become increasingly complex, but rest assured, if you’re elected or appointed to your school board, you won’t ‘go it alone. NJSBA is New Jersey’s only service organization whose sole mission is to train, assist and represent the state’s local boards of education," New Jersey School Boards Association President Irene M. LeFebvre said.

In Madison, there will be two open seats in November as John Regan and Stephen Tindall have terms ending in December of 2022.

Requirements to run for school board:

• Be a citizen of the United States.
• Be at least 18 years of age to qualify for office.
• Be able to read and write.
• Must have been a resident of the municipality from which he/she is to be elected for at least one year preceding the date of the election.
• Not be disqualified as a voter.
• Not be disqualified from membership for the conviction of crimes.
• Be a registered voter in the district.