Determine a platform for your campaign. Before getting voters to cast their ballot for you, decide which are the most important issues for your campaign. For example, if the education budget has increased and has caused taxes to rise in your community and that you feel lower taxes behoove the community, run on a platform of repealing some budgetary costs. Additionally, talk to members of the community and listen to issues they feel are pressing. Then craft your positions around what you believe are the best solutions for those issues.
Inquire about the number of likely voters in the upcoming election. Certain cities and towns provide information about the number of people who voted, while others don't keep track of the statistics. Search old news articles or inquire with the local registrar to get as many statistics as possible. This allows you to approximate how many people are voting -- which is helpful when putting together your budget.
Create a budget for all campaign expenditures. The biggest expense for the campaign are campaign materials such as yard signs, bumper stickers and mailings. Other expenses include campaign websites, newspaper ads and novelty gifts such as pens, pencils and key chains for potential voters. While you do not need to use all of these items in building awareness about your campaign, using these get the message of your candidacy to the public. Additionally, use the approximation you previously discovered when ordering these campaign supplies.
Fund raise for your candidacy. Aside from your own money which you donate to the campaign, raise funds through other people in the community. Aside from lessening the burden on your own pocket, others become invested in you as a candidate by donating to your campaign. Fundraising ideas include mailing envelopes asking for donations or creating an event such as a BBQ or car wash where the proceeds go to your campaign. Whatever method you choose, inform potential donors of your platform, either by including the information in the mailing, or by speaking with people at an event.
Purchase and distribute your campaign materials. However you decide to spread the word of your campaign, distribute your materials to local supporters who've donated to your campaign. For example, if a supporter owns a home with road frontage in which many people drive by each morning, ask that supporter to place a yard sign on his front lawn.
Visit local school events, distribute campaign materials and speak with parents of school children. People with children in school have a rooting interest in voting in the election. Create an opportunity such as attending sporting events or school parades to speak with parents. Note that if the event is on school grounds, get permission from the school or current board to pass out your materials at the event.
Prepare and debate the issues. Some school boards hold debates amongst those running for office. If your school system holds such debates, practice answering questions about the issues facing the school. Use friends or family who've donated to your campaign to ask questions. Also research the voting record of your opponents. Knowing how they voted enables you to differentiate yourself from your opponent during a debate.
Spread your message up through election night. Whether you knock on doors, stand in front of the grocery store or use social media pages to educate people on your candidacy, continue to campaign up until the very last hour. Better to win an election by a few votes than lose one by the same margin.