Voters in Columbia, the state capital, should expect several key aspects for the 2025 School Board Election:
Election Basics
In Columbia, voters will select two school board members for Columbia Public Schools in the upcoming municipal election, alongside mayoral and city council races.
The election centers on major community issues such as school funding, curriculum, diversity, and student support—especially for immigrant populations and equity initiatives.
Candidate Information
Three prominent candidates are running: Erica Dickson, Ken Rice, and incumbent Suzette Waters.
Topics addressed include community involvement, support for teachers, transparency, diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Erica Dickson emphasizes advocacy for all students, drawing on her experience in public schools.
Ken Rice brings his business and volunteer background, focusing on transparency and common-sense governance.
Suzette Waters, currently serving as board president, stresses her direct engagement with classrooms and school events.
Voting Logistics
The general election date is Tuesday, November 4, 2025; the polls are open from 6 am to 9 pm.
Voters can register until October 25, 2025, through the local Board of Elections or an online portal.
Polling places are listed and can be located using official county resources or city guides.
What Voters Should Do
Review candidate profiles and public forums, such as League of Women Voters events and local news Q&As, for deeper insights into policies and priorities.
Confirm voter registration status and assigned polling location before election day.
Bring photo ID or approved identification when voting, and check for any updated procedures via city election sites.
This election offers a significant opportunity for Columbia residents to influence local education policy and community engagement for the coming years.
SOURCES
[1](https://themaneater.com/125663/news/columbia-mayoral-city-council-school-board-candidates-discuss-platform-goals-ahead-of-municipal-election/)
[2](https://www.columbiatribune.com/story/news/politics/elections/2025/03/22/columbia-school-board-election-candidates-answer-questions-views/82564364007/)
[3](https://elections.columbiacountyny.com)
[4](https://ballotpedia.org/City_elections_in_Columbia,_South_Carolina_(2025))
[5](https://cityclerk.columbiasc.gov/elections/)
