Community members interested in serving on their local school board should begin preparing well in advance of the April 2027 Consolidated Election. The Illinois State Board of Elections has established a series of important dates governing the petition, filing, objection, and election process for school board candidates.
For the April 6, 2027, Consolidated Election, the first day for prospective school board candidates to circulate nominating petitions is Tuesday, August 25, 2026.
The formal candidate filing period begins Monday, November 16, 2026, and ends at the close of business on Monday, November 23, 2026. Candidates must file their original nominating petitions, statement of candidacy, and receipt showing the filing of their Statement of Economic Interests with the appropriate election authority.
You may pick up packets at the Unit Office, at 302 East Progress Street in Arthur, Illinois or at the Douglas County Courthouse located at 401 South Center Street, Tuscola, Illinois.
Additional important dates include:
January 28, 2027: Last day to file a withdrawal of candidacy.
February 4, 2027: Last day for a write-in candidate to file a Declaration of Intent.
April 6, 2027: Consolidated Election Day. Polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.
April 27, 2027: Deadline for canvassing of election results.
Serving on a local school board is an important opportunity to participate in the governance of public education and to help shape the future of the school district. Community members considering candidacy are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the requirements and deadlines well before the filing period begins.