OSBA and its members are in the thick of a potentially course-changing state school funding debate. OSBA Board elections this year will determine who carries the cause into 2025.
The nominating process for OSBA Board positions, as well as one Legislative Policy Committee position, opened Monday, Aug. 19, and runs through Sept. 27.
“Serving on the OSBA Board is about taking your local board leadership to the next level and advocating for students and districts in your region and across the state,” said Emielle Nischik, OSBA interim executive director. “It’s an opportunity to dive into education policy and advocacy at the state level, ensuring your region’s unique needs and perspectives are represented.”
The OSBA Board, which is chosen by member boards according to 14 regions, helps guide the association’s work and provides important state-level voices for education issues.
OSBA distributes packets and information to all school board members in regions where seats are up for election. Candidates must have a formal school board nomination.
Twelve OSBA Board positions are up for election this year: Eastern (position 1), Central (3), Southern (5), Clackamas (7), Douglas/South Coast (9), Linn/Benton/Lincoln (10), Marion (11), Yamhill/Pok (13), Washington (15 and 20), and Multnomah (17 and 19). All the openings are for two-year terms, except positions 10 and 20, which are one-year terms.
The Legislative Policy Committee seat for Marion, position 12, is vacant and also open for a one-year term. LPC members help set OSBA’s agenda in the Legislature as well as acting as important communication bridges between Salem and their communities.
School boards are also able to submit potential resolutions until Sept. 27.
Official ballots will be distributed in October, and voting will begin in November.
The OSBA Election Center contains more information. Members can also contact OSBA executive assistant La’Nell Trissel at [email protected].
– Jake Arnold, OSBA
[email protected]
