On Nov. 5, voters statewide will decide via a proposed constitutional amendment whether they want to elect school boards members in partisan versus the current nonpartisan elections.
What difference does it make? Plenty.
After careful study, the League recommends a “NO” vote on Amendment 1, so that school board elections remain nonpartisan.
Among reasons the League opposes making school board elections partisan:
-- Nearly four million No Party Affiliate voters in Florida would be excluded from voting for school board candidates in primaries if school board elections become partisan. In some circumstances, only voters of one party would have a say in selecting candidates.
--- Nonpartisan boards may have more incentives for collaboration and compromise.
-- Nonpartisan elections maintain local control. Partisan candidates may support their party’s agenda rather than using first-hand knowledge and experience of the local district’s needs, issues, and best interests to provide the appropriate guidance and leadership.
-- Nonpartisanship promotes a school community with diverse perspectives and experiences. Partisan elections may create a politically charged school environment.
Read the Florida League's brochure on Amendment 1 and its consequences.