2026 Voter Guide

Public education is on the ballot.

Here’s what to look for before you vote.

Congress: decisions that reach classrooms nationwide.

Members of the U.S. House and Senate help determine federal education funding and laws. Their decisions can affect support for students with disabilities, schools serving low-income communities, and the federal school voucher program.

Before you vote: Where do your congressional candidates stand on public school funding and support for the federal voucher program?

State leaders: funding, policies, and priorities.

Governors and state legislators help shape school budgets, teacher pay, academic requirements, and how public education dollars are used. This November, voters in 36 states will elect a governor. Some states will also elect state superintendents or state board of education members.

Before you vote: What are candidates proposing and prioritizing for your state’s public schools?

Local races and ballot measures: a closer look.

An education issue may not say “education.”

School board races directly affect your schools. But tax proposals and funding measures can, too. For example, North Carolina voters will consider amendments requiring limits on local property-tax levy increases and lowering the state’s maximum income-tax rate. These decisions shape how governments can raise money, including money used to fund public schools.

Before you vote: What would a “yes” or “no” vote change for your schools and community?

What matters to you in a public school? The choices we make on November 3rd will shape our public schools for years to come.

As you research, consider:

  • Funding for your kids’ classrooms, teachers, and staff
  • Special education, mental health, and student support
  • Free school meals, school safety, and belonging

Looking for a place to start? Education Week’s 2026 election guide lets you explore statewide races and ballot measures affecting schools.

State by State

Is public education on the ballot in your state?

How your vote could impact your public schools.

A state-by-state look at propositions, amendments, and candidates that could shape public education in your community.

Arizona

Proposition 320: School district spending

Would require covered school districts to direct at least 60% of operating spending toward direct instructional expenses, with funding penalties for noncompliance. Learn more at sosarizona.org.

Colorado

Amendment 87: Income taxes and school funding

Would replace the flat state income tax with rates based on income, directing additional revenue to K-12 schools, health care, and early childhood care and education. Learn more at greateducation.org.

Florida

A new governor + Amendment 3

Voters will choose a new governor and consider a property-tax amendment that excludes school taxes but could affect other services students use, including after-school programs. Learn more at strongflschools.org.

Georgia

A new governor + state school superintendent

Voters will choose a new governor and elect the state school superintendent. The superintendent helps shape education funding priorities, literacy efforts, teacher support, and policy implementation. Learn more at georgiaequality.org.

North Carolina

Two tax amendments: Public school revenue

The income tax amendment would lower the state’s income-tax rate cap from 7% to 3.5%. The property tax amendment would require limits on local property-tax levy increases. Both affect revenue sources that help fund public schools. Learn more at ncforum.org and ncfamiliesforpublicschools.org.

Ohio

A new governor + changes to education leadership

Voters will choose a new governor as Ohio shifts to an appointed State Board of Education, giving the governor a role in selecting board members alongside shaping school funding and voucher policies. Learn more at honestyforohioeducation.org.

Tennessee

Amendment 2: State property taxes

Would constitutionally prohibit a statewide property tax, removing a future revenue option for services including education. Local property taxes would remain. Learn more at stand.org/tennessee.

Texas

Governor + 8 State Board of Education seats

The governor’s race will help shape school funding and voucher policies. Eight of 15 seats are also up for election on the State Board of Education, which sets curriculum standards and approves instructional materials. Learn more at equalitytexas.org.