Richfield study session briefs prospective school board candidates on filing rules, duties and election timing

On Monday, July 14, the Richfield Public School District held a study session at the district office to brief prospective candidates about eligibility, filing deadlines, campaign-finance requirements and the duties of school board members.

The session, led by Board Treasurer Ken Les, covered candidate eligibility (must be at least 21, an eligible voter and a district resident for 30 days before the election), how to file to appear on the ballot, campaign-finance reporting thresholds and the board’s major responsibilities.

“The study session today is an informational session for people who may be interested in running to be selected to the school board,” Board Treasurer Ken Les said at the start of the meeting.

Why it matters: The district is transitioning its election schedule to even-numbered years. That change affects term lengths for the next two cycles and can alter when potential candidates must plan to run.

Key points from the meeting

- Filing and deadlines: The district’s single filing period runs from July 29 through Aug. 12 at 5 p.m. Candidates who file may withdraw and avoid appearing on the November ballot by 5 p.m. on Aug. 14. Affidavits of candidacy must be filed in person or by mail with the school district election clerk,…