Texas Will Elect Eight Education Board Members
Voters will head to the polls on November 3, 2026, to fill more than half of the State Board of Education seats.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Administration
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On November 3, 2026, Texans will participate in the midterm election to decide eight of the 15 seats on the State Board of Education. This board holds significant influence over the state's education standards and financial assets.
Why it matters
The board is responsible for setting the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills education standards, which dictate curricula for public schools across the state. Furthermore, members oversee the $60 billion Texas Permanent School Fund, a critical financial entity that helps school districts secure lower interest rates on bonds.
The Texas Permanent School Fund, valued at $60 billion, generates $150 million in annual savings by guaranteeing school district bond rates. The board has governed these public land and mineral resource grants since 1866.
The players
Texas State Board of Education
This body oversees state education standards and manages the Texas Permanent School Fund.
The details
The board ensures that all curricula approved for use in Texas public schools align with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills standards. By managing the fund and these academic benchmarks, the body directly shapes classroom materials and the fiscal health of local districts.
Timeline
The board has functioned and made major decisions since 1866.
Election Day for the eight state board seats is November 3, 2026.
Culture Shift
This election cycle follows the long-standing governance model established by the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills standards. It represents the periodic democratic renewal of the body responsible for maintaining these foundational educational requirements.
Residents can influence the academic standards and financial policies governing their local public school districts through their vote. These board members directly affect the quality of materials in the classroom and the long-term borrowing costs for local school infrastructure.
The takeaway
Voters should review the current board members to understand how these seats shape both classroom curricula and school funding. Participating in the midterm election remains the primary way to influence the state's education oversight.
Further reading
Learn more about the governance of state agencies on the Texas Administration page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by abc13 News.
Live Poll
Do you prioritize school curriculum standards when deciding your vote for local board seats?
