Republicans win two open Alabama State Board of Education district seats

Two Republicans won open Alabama State Board of Education seats last week, maintaining GOP holds on the districts. 

The board, which determines policies for public schools in the state, is composed of nine members. The governor also serves as a member of the board.

In State Board of Education District 8, Republican candidate Emily Jones defeated Democratic candidate Shatika Armstrong. According to unofficial election results, Jones received 123,654 (53.7%) votes to Armstrong’s 106,282 (46.2%) votes. District 8 covers Madison, Limestone, Jackson and DeKalb counties.

Jones thanked voters in a statement posted to social media last week.

“This campaign has always been about putting students first, strengthening academic excellence, and ensuring parents have a voice in their children’s education,” the statement said. “I’m excited to get to work, and I promise to serve the families of District 8 with dedication, integrity, and a commitment to making a meaningful difference over the next four years.”

Jones campaigned on school counseling reform and transparency in communication with parents.

Armstrong said in a social media statement last week that despite the loss, her work “continues without a title.”

“Give me a minute to readjust my crown, tighten my laces, and catch my breath because I’m not done,” the statement said.

Armstrong campaigned on looking into the needs of rural schools, increasing teacher salaries and improving mental health access for students.

Jones will succeed Wayne Reynolds, who decided not to run for re-election to the board.

In District 6, Republican nominee Cathi Bradford bested Democratic candidate Angela Morgan with 137,123 (71.3%) votes to Morgan’s 54,834 (28.5%) votes. District 6 covers Cullman, St. Clair and Etowah counties and a majority of Talladega County.

Bradford said in a statement last week her campaign was “about something much bigger than winning an election.”

“It has been about standing up for our children, respecting the rights of parents and making sure our teachers have the support they need to do what they do best — educate. The people of District 6 have spoken, and I intend to work every day to honor the trust they have placed in me,” the statement said.

Bradford ran on school counseling reform and instilling patriotism in students.

Morgan said in a social media post last week while she didn’t win, the support she got “is a strong foundation to build upon. So, let’s build upon it anyway.”

“I will use this experience and all that I have learned to continue to help improve public education for ALL children in Alabama and to better love ALL my neighbors. I will do it with a glad heart anyway,” the statement said.

Morgan campaigned on student well-being, ensuring clear communication from schools to parents and safe and welcoming schools

Board member Tracie West won reelection to State Board of Education District 2 with 115,373 (61.5%) votes. Her opponent, Democratic nominee Jamie McCurry, received 72,056 (38.4%) votes.

West said in a statement last week she was “very grateful to everyone that supported our campaign!”

West’s priorities included seeking safeguards on artificial intelligence and continuing to make gains in literacy.

McCurry, a student at Auburn University, thanked voters in a social media statement last week.

“Over 72,000 votes is something I never would have expected and it means a lot. I enjoyed running this campaign and being able to meet so many wonderful people,” the statement said.

McCurry ran on advocating for complete and accurate textbooks and funding for neglected schools.

In the only non-contested race, Board Member Yvette Richardson won re-election with 98% of the vote.

Richardson said in a social media post Tuesday “it is an honor to continue serving District 4 on the Alabama State Board of Education and advocating for our children.”