Do in-depth research into the school district's organizational hierarchy and student demographics to gain an understanding of the district as a whole. Candidates who are well-versed on local issues will gain voters' confidence. Find out all the ongoing issues by attending PTA meetings and school board meetings while engaging in discussions with school employees.
Having a plan of action for the school district and its major issues allows you to address the concerns of potential voters. Use the research you have on the current and future issues to develop an agenda prioritizing what you would like to see happen if you're elected to the board. It is important to write your ideas and plans down so you can review them as necessary during the campaign.
Marketing is an essential campaign strategy that allows you to get your ideas to the voters. A personal campaign website is an ideal medium to display your beliefs and qualifications. Create a simple website yourself or pay to have someone create one that has information on you, your background and your ideas for the school district. Other marketing methods for a school board campaign include email lists, fliers, palm cards, lawn signs and business cards -- along with radio and television advertising. Have your website address listed on all your other marketing to direct voters to your site.
Face-to-face contact and interacting with the community allows the voters to see you and gain an understanding of your character. As a school board candidate, you should attend as many school functions as possible, including all school board meetings, fundraisers, sporting events and volunteer opportunities. Walking around neighborhoods of the school district on weekends is an effective way to pass out your marketing materials and meet the community. Putting a face with a name will make more voters recognize you on the ballot and more likely to vote for you than if they had never met you.