As citizens, understanding the education system is crucial before participating in elections. Education policies directly impact our communities, shaping the future of our children and the workforce. Voters who are well-informed about education issues are better equipped to evaluate candidates' platforms and make decisions that align with their values. This article provides an in-depth look at the key facts every citizen should know before heading to the polls, covering funding, curriculum, teacher quality, school choice, and the roles of different levels of government in setting education policy.

The Importance of Education in Elections

Education is one of the most significant factors influencing a society's development. Research shows that a strong education system correlates with higher economic growth, lower crime rates, greater civic participation, and improved health outcomes. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), total expenditures for public elementary and secondary schools in the United States exceeded $800 billion in recent years. Decisions about how this money is spent—whether on teacher salaries, infrastructure, technology, or support services—are shaped by elected officials at every level.

Moreover, education policy determines what is taught in classrooms, how student progress is measured, and the degree of choice families have in selecting schools. These issues resonate deeply with voters, as they affect not only their own children but also the broader community’s future workforce and democratic health. A 2020 survey by the Pew Research Center found that about 55% of registered voters considered education a very important issue in their voting decisions. Yet many voters lack detailed knowledge of how education policies are crafted and who holds responsibility for them.

Key Facts About Education and Elections

Understanding the following key facts helps voters evaluate candidates' positions with greater depth. Each area represents a major lever of educational change.

Education Funding Sources

Education funding comes from local, state, and federal sources. On average, about 45% of funding comes from state sources, 45% from local property taxes, and the remaining 10% from the federal government. However, these proportions vary widely by state. Local funding reliance can create inequities between wealthy and poor districts, a fact that often becomes a campaign issue. Candidates may propose changes to state funding formulas, increased federal investment (e.g., Title I funds for low-income schools), or tax policies that affect school budgets. Voters should look for specific proposals regarding funding equity, adequacy, and accountability measures.

For example, the federal Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) gives states greater flexibility in spending federal dollars, but also requires states to set performance targets and intervene in low-performing schools. A candidate’s record on supporting or opposing ESSA revisions can provide insight into their broader education philosophy. Explore state-by-state education funding policies from the Education Commission of the States.

Curriculum Standards

What students learn in school is determined by curriculum standards, which are typically set at the state level. The Common Core State Standards, adopted by many states in the early 2010s, have become a lightning rod in political debates. Some candidates advocate for returning control to local school boards, while others support rigorous national standards. Curriculum debates also extend to topics such as sex education, critical race theory, and history instruction. A candidate’s stance on these issues reveals their views on the role of government, parental rights, and the purpose of public education. Voters should examine not only rhetoric but also past votes or policy positions on curriculum frameworks.

Teacher Salaries and Quality

Teacher compensation is a perennial election issue. In the 2021–2022 school year, the average public school teacher salary in the U.S. was about $66,000, though this varies dramatically by state. Many districts face teacher shortages, especially in special education, STEM, and rural areas. Candidates may propose across-the-board raises, merit pay, increased benefits, or changes to tenure and licensure requirements. Research from the Learning Policy Institute shows that higher teacher salaries are linked to lower turnover and improved student outcomes. Voters should ask whether a candidate’s proposals address recruitment and retention in sustainable ways. Learn more about teacher salary trends from the National Education Association.

School Choice: Charter Schools and Vouchers

School choice policies—including charter schools, voucher programs, education savings accounts (ESAs), and open enrollment—can significantly alter the educational landscape. Supporters argue they provide options for families trapped in underperforming schools; critics warn they divert resources from traditional public schools and increase segregation. As of 2023, 32 states plus the District of Columbia have charter school laws, and 15 states have voucher or ESA programs. Candidates’ positions on choice often correlate with their party affiliation, but there are nuances. Voters should examine whether candidates prioritize accountability for choice schools, how funding follows students, and what protections exist for students with disabilities.

For a detailed overview, see the National Conference of State Legislatures’ summary of school choice policies.

Standardized Testing and Accountability

The role of standardized testing is another key fault line. The No Child Left Behind Act (2001) mandated annual testing in reading and math, with consequences for schools that failed to make adequate progress. ESSA reduced the federal role but still requires testing once per grade span. Some candidates advocate test-based accountability, while others push for performance assessments or portfolio-based evaluation. Data from the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) shows that over-reliance on test scores can narrow the curriculum. Voters should evaluate whether a candidate’s accountability proposals align with research on effective assessment practices and whether they address issues of test bias and over-testing.

Understanding Local vs. National Education Policies

While national policies set broad guidelines, local policies determine how education is implemented in communities. Voters should examine both levels when considering candidates. The 10th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution reserves education primarily to the states, which then delegate authority to local school districts. This fragmentation means that a candidate for president has limited direct impact on classroom decisions, while a school board member can change curricula or approve a line-item budget. Similarly, state legislators and governors wield enormous influence over funding formulas, charter school laws, and teacher certification requirements.

The Role of the Federal Government

The U.S. Department of Education, established in 1979, oversees federal education programs, enforces civil rights laws, and distributes about 10% of total K–12 funding. The Secretary of Education is appointed by the president and confirmed by the Senate. Major federal policies include Title I (funding for low-income students), the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and the Pell Grant program for college students. Candidates for president and Congress often propose changes to these programs, such as doubling Title I funding, eliminating the Department of Education, or expanding college affordability. Voters should understand that federal action is most impactful on issues of equity, civil rights, and higher education financing.

The Role of State Governments

State legislatures and governors set the majority of K–12 policies. They determine funding formulas, academic standards, teacher certification requirements, and graduation requirements. State boards of education, often appointed by the governor or elected, adopt textbooks and oversee testing regimes. In recent years, state-level battles over critical race theory, library books, and transgender student rights have become central to education elections. Voters need to follow not only gubernatorial races but also state legislative races, down-ballot votes for state superintendent, and ballot initiatives that may directly affect education funding.

The Role of Local School Boards

Local school boards make decisions that immediately affect classrooms. They adopt budgets, hire and evaluate superintendents, negotiate teacher contracts, approve curriculum materials, and set school calendars. In many communities, school board elections have low turnout—often below 10%—yet their impact is profound. A school board can decide to close a school, implement a new reading curriculum, or change discipline policies. Given the highly polarized environment, school board meetings have become battlegrounds for national cultural debates. Voters who pay attention to local candidates can influence education policy more directly than through any other office.

Researching Candidates' Education Platforms

To make informed decisions, voters should actively research candidates' education platforms. This includes reviewing their past actions, public statements, and proposed policies. Because education is a complex field with many technical details, it is easy to be swayed by sound bites. The following strategies help voters cut through rhetoric and assess real positions.

Official Websites and Policy Papers

Candidates often outline their education policies on their campaign websites. Look for detailed sections that go beyond general statements like “I support our schools.” Substantive proposals include specific funding amounts, plans for improving teacher recruitment, or detailed accountability metrics. Compare multiple candidates’ proposals to see where the differences lie—often between more local control versus more federal oversight, or between school choice expansion versus strengthening traditional public schools.

Public Debates and Town Halls

Attend or watch recordings of debates to hear candidates answer education-specific questions. Take note of which issues they emphasize and whether they offer concrete answers or fall back on talking points. Town halls may allow direct questioning from community members. If a candidate avoids answering a detailed question about special education policy or the achievement gap, that can be informative.

Fact-Checking Organizations

Use reputable nonpartisan sources to verify claims. Organizations like FactCheck.org, PolitiFact, and the Annenberg Public Policy Center often fact-check campaign statements on education spending and test score claims. Additionally, state-level legislative scorecards from groups such as the National Education Association or Stand for Children can show a candidate’s voting record on key education bills. The NEA’s advocacy page provides legislative scorecards for Congress.

Talking to Educators and Parents

Engage with teachers, school administrators, and parent organizations. They often have firsthand knowledge of how policies affect classrooms. Parent-teacher associations (PTAs) and teacher unions frequently publish candidate questionnaires or host forums. While these groups may have their own biases, their insights can highlight practical consequences of proposed policies that might not appear in campaign materials.

The Role of Voter Engagement in Education Policy

Engaged voters can influence education policy far beyond Election Day. By voting, attending school board meetings, advocating for specific issues, and even running for office, citizens can help shape the future of education in their communities. Many of the most consequential education decisions—like whether to adopt a new math curriculum or close an under-enrolled school—are made outside the spotlight of national elections.

Voting in Local Elections

Low turnout in school board and municipal elections means that a small number of motivated voters can have outsized influence. In many districts, school board members are elected in off-cycle years, and fewer than 5% of eligible voters may participate. If education is a priority, make a point to vote in every election, not just presidential years. Find out where candidates stand on issues like classroom size, mental health services, and budget priorities. Use nonpartisan voter guides from local civic organizations.

Attending School Board and Town Meetings

School board meetings are public and often include time for community comment. Regularly attending allows you to stay informed about district decisions, budget hearings, and policy changes. If you cannot attend in person, many boards livestream meetings. Speaking during public comment is an opportunity to voice support or concern—for example, about a proposed policy on library book selection or a new teacher evaluation system. School board members notice which issues resonate with the community.

Joining Advocacy Groups

Many organizations focus on education reform and can amplify your voice. Local PTAs, the League of Women Voters, the NAACP’s education committees, and state-based advocacy groups like the Washington State School Boards Association all provide resources and coordinated action opportunities. Joining these groups can give you access to policy briefs, candidate forums, and lobbying days at the state capitol. National organizations such as EdTrust and UnidosUS also track education equity issues and offer action alerts.

Volunteering for Campaigns

If you find a pro-education candidate who aligns with your values, consider volunteering—canvassing, phone banking, hosting events, or donating. Educational change often begins with electing people who prioritize evidence-based policies. Your effort can help ensure that education remains a focal point of the campaign, rather than being overshadowed by other issues.

Educating Others

Share information with friends, family, and coworkers. Many people avoid discussing education because they find it complex. By explaining key facts in plain language—like how property taxes fund schools or how charter schools are authorized—you empower more voters to make informed choices. Social media, neighborhood newsletters, and community bulletin boards are all channels for raising awareness. Remember that informed voters are more likely to hold elected officials accountable after the election.

Conclusion: Empowering Citizens Through Education

Education is a cornerstone of democracy. By understanding key facts about education funding, curriculum, teacher quality, school choice, and accountability, citizens can make informed choices that shape the future of their communities. Engaging in the electoral process—not just at the national level but also in state and local races—is essential for promoting effective education systems that benefit everyone. Every vote counts, but informed votes count even more. As you prepare to head to the polls, take the time to research candidates’ education platforms, attend forums, and talk with educators. The decisions made today will affect classrooms for years to come.