Texas State Board of Education Races on the Ballot in 2026

November 3, 2026 - 09:15

Voters across Texas will decide eight State Board of Education contests in the 2026 midterm election on Tuesday, Nov. 3. The races will shape the board that oversees public school standards, textbook adoption, and curriculum rules for millions of students statewide.

Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Election Day. Unofficial results will be posted after 7 p.m. as county election offices report their counts.

The board's decisions reach far beyond the classroom. Members vote on what students are expected to learn in subjects from math and science to social studies and health. Those choices often draw public attention, especially when topics like history, evolution, or sex education come up for revision.

This year's races cover a mix of districts, some long held by one party and others expected to be competitive. Turnout in midterm elections tends to be lower than in presidential years, which can give organized groups outsized influence in close contests.

Candidates have focused on issues including school funding oversight, parental involvement, and how the board reviews instructional materials. Several races have drawn endorsements from teachers' groups, parent organizations, and political action committees.

Voters can check their assigned district and polling location through their county elections office. Anyone in line when polls close at 7 p.m. is allowed to vote. Mail ballots returned on Election Day must meet the state's receipt deadlines to be counted.

Results will update through the evening as precincts report. Close races may not be settled until late, and any contest within a recount margin could extend past election night.