Serving on a school board is one of the most impactful ways to contribute to your community and shape the future of public education. School board members play a vital role in adopting and maintaining policies, developing a budget and presenting it to the community, and supporting a healthy school district culture for work and learning.
If you’re considering running for a seat on the Rome City School District (RCSD) Board of Education, please find below information regarding the process, expectations, and responsibilities.
Who Can Run?
To be eligible to run for the RCSD Board of Education, candidates must:
· Be at least 18 years old
· Be a U.S. citizen
· Be a resident of the district for at least one year prior to the election (May 19, 2026)
· Be able to read and write
· Be a registered voter in the district
· Not be employed by the district or live in the same household as a current board member
· Not otherwise be unqualified to run for office
If you meet these criteria, you are eligible to take the next step in the process.
How to Get on the Ballot
To run for a school board seat and be on the ballot, candidates must submit a nominating petition with at least 100 signatures from qualified district voters.
Steps to file your petition:
1. Pick up a nominating petition from the District Clerk, Mrs. Sandra Russell, at the District Office located at 266-268 West Dominick Street.
2. Collect at least 100 signatures from qualified voters within the district. Printed names and addresses must be legible. Candidates are encouraged to obtain more than 100 signatures in the event some must be disqualified.
3. Submit the completed petition to the District Clerk no later than 5 p.m. on April 29, 2026, at the District Office located at 266-268 West Dominick Street.
4. Once your petition is filed, you can begin your campaign.
What to Expect if Elected
Winning a seat on the school board is a significant commitment. Board members serve three-year terms (for this year only, the candidate with the highest number of votes will serve for a five-year term) and play a critical role in shaping the district’s educational policies and financial decisions. Key responsibilities include:
· Approving and overseeing the district budget
· Establishing policies to guide district operations and student achievement
· Hiring and evaluating the superintendent
· Ensuring compliance with state and federal education regulations
Newly elected board members must also complete training in fiscal oversight, governance, and ethics within their first year to ensure they can effectively contribute to decision-making.
Time Commitment
On average, school board members dedicate 5-to-15 hours per week to board-related activities, including:
· Board Meetings – Typically held twice a month, lasting two-to-four hours, plus additional committee meetings or work sessions.
· Reviewing Materials – Reading reports, financial statements, and district updates to prepare for meetings.
· Community Engagement – Meeting with parents, staff, and community members to gather input.
· Professional Development – Attending training sessions, workshops, or conferences related to school governance.
· Communication & Research – Staying informed about key issues impacting the district and collaborating with fellow board members.
Why Run for the School Board?
Serving on the Board of Education is more than attending meetings—it’s about making a lasting impact on students and the broader community. Whether your passion is student achievement, school safety, budgeting, or equitable opportunities for all learners, this role provides a platform to advocate for meaningful improvement.
If you are committed to improving education in RCSD and have the time, dedication, and vision to serve, running for the school board is an opportunity to make a difference.
Additional information can be found in the New York State School Boards Association "Running for School Board" brochure.
How Many Seats Are Available?
This year, three seats on the Rome City School District Board of Education are up for election. The individual receiving the highest number of votes will be elected to a five-year term (July 1, 2026-June 30, 2031). The second- and third-highest votes received will each be elected to a three-year term (July 1, 2026-June 30, 2029).
When Does Voting Occur?
Voting will be held during the Rome City School District School Budget and Board Election Night, scheduled for Tuesday, May 19, 2026.
Where Can I Obtain a Nominating Petition or More Information?
For more information or to obtain a nominating petition, please contact Mrs. Sandra Russell, District Clerk, at the RCSD District Office located at 266-268 West Dominick Street.