The qualifying window for two school board positions in Tallahatchie County opens next week.
Tuesday, July 21, is the first day to sign up for school board. The qualifying deadline is 5 p.m. on Thursday, July 21. The election will be Nov. 3.
Members of the East and West Tallahatchie school districts’ five-member boards of trustees serve staggered five-year terms, with one seat in each district coming up for election every fall.
This year’s election will feature Education District 1, a seat on the West Tallahatchie school board currently held by Lucinda Berryhill, and Education District 6, a post on the East Tallahatchie school board presently occupied by Audra “Temp” Brown.
According to Mississippi State University Extension, school boards have authority to regulate the school district’s affairs, property and finances that are not subject to state law. They are responsible for curriculum, personnel, buildings and district policies, among other duties. The Mississippi School Boards Association website provides additional information about legal powers and obligations of school boards, as outlined by state law.
There is no qualifying fee for school board, but candidates must file a Qualifying Statement of Intent and submit a petition with the signatures of 50 registered voters who are residents of their respective education district.
Forms are available from the circuit clerk’s offices in Charleston (662-647-8758) and Sumner (662-375-8515).
The Mississippi Secretary of State's Office website offers more information about elections and voting.
