3 Things Districts and School Board Candidates Need To Know About the May 2 Election
School board elections are a cornerstone of local governance in Texas public education — and as districts prepare for the May 2, 2026, trustee elections, staying on top of statutory deadlines and procedural requirements is essential to ensure a smooth, compliant process.
“School board elections are foundational to strong local governance,” said Mark Tilley, division director of TASB Legal Services. “For district personnel, careful attention to deadlines and procedures helps protect the integrity of the process. And for prospective candidates, understanding the filing requirements and key dates ensures they can participate fully and confidently in serving their communities.”
Uniform election dates come with a detailed set of legal requirements for candidate filings, ballot preparation, public notices, early voting, and post-election procedures. Missing even a single deadline can create administrative challenges or legal complications.
The May 2026 trustee election calendar includes key dates that began in December 2025 and extend through post-election canvassing in May 2026. While this article highlights major milestones, districts should refer to the full TASB Legal Services guidance and the Texas Secretary of State’s election law calendar for complete details.
Below is a high-level overview of major milestones and reminders from TASB Legal Services to help school leaders, trustees, and prospective candidates navigate the months leading up to Election Day. Districts should always consult their legal counsel and TASB Policy BBB for district-specific procedures.
1. What are the Major Milestones in the 2026 Election Cycle?
Candidate Filing and Ballot Preparation:
- General election candidate filing period: Opened Jan. 14, 2026, and closed Feb. 13, 2026
- Write-in candidate deadline: Feb. 17, 2026
- Ballot order drawing (recommended deadline): Feb. 23, 2026
- Deadline to withdraw from general election and ensure candidate name is not on ballot: Feb. 20, 2026
Election Administration and Public Notice:
- General election ordered by board: Deadline Feb. 13, 2026
- Notice of election publication window: April 2 – April 22, 2026
- Website and posting requirements: Districts must post election details — including polling locations, candidates, and measures — by April 11, 2026.
Texas law requires multiple forms of notice, including newspaper publication and website posting. Districts should coordinate closely with legal counsel to ensure all requirements are met, especially if bond or tax rate elections are also on the ballot.
Voter Deadlines and Early Voting:
- Last day to register to vote: April 2, 2026
- Early voting period: April 20 – April 28, 2026 (no voting on April 21 due to San Jacinto Day)
- Election Day: Saturday, May 2, 2026, with polls open 7 a.m.–7 p.m.
Ensuring the public is aware of registration and early voting dates helps support strong voter participation in local school governance.
Post-Election Responsibilities:
- Canvassing window: May 5 – May 13, 2026
- Posting election results: As soon as practicable after the election
- Electronic records deadline: May 17, 2026
Districts must also follow procedures for issuing certificates of election, administering oaths of office, and retaining election records.
2. What About Special Elections and Other Considerations?
Some districts may hold special elections to fill vacancies or conduct bond or voter-approval tax rate elections. These elections may follow different timelines and requirements. TASB Legal’s eSource document provides information on special election deadlines. Districts can also consult:
- TASB Legal Services
- Their school attorney
- The Texas Secretary of State’s Elections Division
Campaign finance deadlines are administered separately by the Texas Ethics Commission and are not included in the general election calendar.
3. How Can My District Support Compliant and Transparent Elections?
School board elections reflect the community’s voice in public education. Careful planning, timely notices, and adherence to legal requirements help ensure that elections are fair, transparent, and accessible to voters and candidates alike.
TASB Legal Services provides ongoing resources — including election calendars, policy guidance, and post-election checklists — to support districts throughout the election process.
Learn More
For detailed timelines and legal guidance, visit:
- TASB School Law eSource: Deadlines for School District Trustee Elections
- After the School Board Election | TASB
- Texas Secretary of State Elections Division resources
- TASB Policy BBB (Election Procedures)
This article is provided for educational purposes and does not substitute for legal advice. Districts should consult their attorneys to apply legal requirements to specific situations.
