Come November 6, voters in more than half of the 13 states that still elect state superintendents will determine their state's next top education official. Democratic and Republican candidates will face off in Arizona, Georgia, Idaho, Oklahoma and South Carolina. In California the election is nonpartisan, and the race features two candidates both running with Democratic support. In Wyoming, Republican incumbent Jillian Balow is running unopposed
As Education Week documents, state superintendents play an interesting and important role in a state's education system. Oftentimes, these elected state officers clash with the governor's office, particularly when they are of different political parties. Issues for state superintendents in recent years have largely centered on state standards, accountability, educator recruitment/retention and state education funding.
In addition to electing a state superintendent, as we reported on the CTE Policy Watch Blog last week, South Carolina voters face a unique choice. A ballot measure in the state would transform the elected state superintendent position into one appointed by the governor. This would follow a similar trend over the last century, as the number of states that elect state superintendents has dwindled from 33 at one point.
Along with critical U.S. Senate and House elections, many gubernatorial offices, state legislative seats and ballot initiatives will be decided in the 2018 elections. Don't forget to vote on Tuesday, November 6, 2018!
ACTE is a nonpartisan organization that does not—and will not—support or oppose any candidate for public office. For more nonpartisan information on elections in your state and how to register to vote, visit Nonprofit VOTE.
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