2025–2026 STAT Board Nominations and Election

The Science Teachers Association of Texas (STAT) is seeking qualified, dedicated members who represent the diversity of the Texas science education community to provide invaluable strategic leadership to the association. The STAT call for nominations for the 2025–2026 STAT Executive Board is open through March 15, 2025.  

STAT Executive Board Overview and Open Positions

Serving on the Science Teachers Association of Texas (STAT) Executive Board is an exciting way to grow as a leader within the education community. The STAT Executive Board is the governing body with voting power over corporate and financial decisions. The Executive Board consists of nine members—five officers and four members—as outlined below:

2025–2026 Executive Board Qualifications

To be considered for an open position on the STAT Executive Board, individuals must demonstrate a breadth and depth of experience and commitment to the science education community in Texas. This is accomplished through a thorough application process. Candidates may be considered for more than one open position as indicated on the application. The following criteria for Board service apply:

• Any regular member in good standing shall be eligible for nomination, election and service on the Executive Board, with the exception of the President-Elect position. Any individual regular member in good standing who has served a minimum of one year on the Executive Board or the Executive Committee shall be eligible for nomination and election as President-Elect and service during the three-year presidential term.
• No Executive Board member may serve concurrently as an Affiliate representative on the Advisory Board.
• No two offices on the Executive Board may be held by the same person, except in the event of appointment due to office vacancy.
• No full term may be repeated consecutively by the same person.
• Verification at the time of service, primary professional role will be executed in Texas. 

FOUR (4) POSITIONS ARE OPEN FOR 2025–2026: 

• President-Elect (1 position)
• Treasurer (1 position)
• Board Member (2 positions)

For a complete description of each Executive Board position, please click here.

STAT Executive Board Nomination/Election Process

The STAT Bylaws and Policy & Procedures Manual outline a slate-based nomination/election process. The purpose is to ensure that highly qualified, dedicated STAT members serve on the Executive Board.

1. An appointed Nominating Committee works to promote the nomination and election process and ensure a slate of officers with a minimum of one candidate per position. The Nominating Committee is chaired by the Immediate Past President and consists of a minimum of five (5) members, including an additional Past President. No member of the Nominating Committee can be nominated for election to the Executive Board.

2. The Call for Nominations opens, and STAT members may nominate individuals or themselves by completing the online application.
   
   
3. Nominated individuals will receive the Application for STAT Executive Board Service. The nominee must complete the application as well as provide required supplementary information (administrator support form and position statement) by the published deadline to be considered.
   
   
4. The Nominating Committee will meet to review all eligible candidate applications and select a slate of officers with a minimum of one candidate per position.
   
   
5. The Nominating Committee shall recommend a slate of eligible candidates to be voted on by the membership. This slate will be announced no fewer than 60 days prior to the end of the STAT fiscal year (May 31). 
   
   
6. In accordance with the STAT Bylaws, 15 days shall be allowed following the slate announcement for any STAT member in good standing to self-declare for a position on the STAT Executive Board through the written petition of 1% of the current STAT membership. 
   
   
7. In order to self-declare in this election cycle, a member must submit a letter to the STAT Nominating Committee Chair that is received in the STAT office no later than Tuesday, April 15, 2025. This letter must be accompanied by a completed electronic Self-Declared Candidate Application and individual letters of endorsement from 1% of the current, active STAT members. If interested in self-declaring, please contact STAT for more details. 
   
   

8.  If any member successfully self-declares for an open Executive Board position, the position will then become contested, and the process for resolving a contested election will be implemented.

9. At the end of the 15-day period, the slate will either be elected by acclamation or an online election for contested positions in which the candidate who receives the plurality of votes will be conducted.

Executive Board 2025 Election Timeline

Nominations Form/Application

Nominate Yourself for the STAT Executive Board

The deadline to nominate yourself for the STAT Executive Board is March 15, 2025. You will be required to submit supporting materials by March 20, 2025. 

Self-Nomination Form

Nominate a Colleague for the STAT Executive Board

The colleague nomination period will close on March 15, 2025. Your colleague will be notified of their nomination and required to submit supporting materials by March 20, 2025.

Colleague Nomination Form

Note: The forms will require you to log in with your STAT membership. Not sure of your password? Reset it here.

FAQs: STAT Executive Board Service

What is the purpose of the STAT Executive Board?

The STAT Executive Board serves as the governing body of the association, setting policies, making strategic decisions, and overseeing key initiatives. Board members provide leadership for STAT's committees, advisory councils, Affiliates, and publications. Their responsibilities include:

• Establishing policies and organizational goals
• Overseeing financial affairs
• Ensuring STAT's mission and vision align with the needs of the membership
• Representing the diverse interests of Texas science educators

The Executive Board also works alongside Affiliate Representatives as part of the STAT Advisory Board, fostering collaboration across specialized science education groups.

Who is the ideal STAT Executive Board candidate?

STAT seeks board members who are passionate about advancing science education and represent the diversity of our membership. Ideal candidates come from various backgrounds, including:

• K–12 classroom teachers
• Administrators and district leaders
• University-level educators
• Informal science educators (museums, STEM programs, etc.)

Individuals from all geographic regions and experience levels are encourage to apply. For more information about the qualifications for service, click here.

What is the role of the volunteer STAT Executive Board member?

Board members serve as a bridge between STAT and its members. Their key responsibilities include:

• Providing strategic leadership and vision for the association
• Setting policies and long-term goals
• Supporting and advising on key initiatives (events, advocacy, partnerships)
• Attending and participating in board meetings and discussions

While association staff and committee volunteers typically execute STAT programs, STAT Executive Board members are responsible for big-picture planning and oversight.

Is there a membership requirement for serving on the STAT Executive Board?

Executive Board members must hold and maintain active membership in the association for the length of service.

How often does the STAT Executive Board meet/what is the time commitment required?

Board members should expect to participate in several meetings throughout the year:

• In-person meetings: Two 2-day meetings, typically held in February and July.
• CAST meeting: A board meeting held in conjunction with the annual Conference for the Advancement of Science Teaching (CAST), presented by STAT, typically on the Tuesday evening before the conference.
• Virtual meetings: Two online meetings, typically in May and September.

In addition to meetings, board members should plan for time to review materials, engage in discussions, and support key initiatives as needed.

What is the personal financial commitment?

STAT covers expenses related to official board meetings, including travel, lodging (if necessary), and meals. However, board members may have some optional out-of-pocket costs, such as attending CAST, which is encouraged but not reimbursed.

If an employer (e.g., school district or company) supports professional service,  board members are encouraged to explore reimbursement options through their organization. Additionally, because STAT is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, board members who personally cover expenses may choose to log them as a charitable tax deduction.

What do Executive Board members get in return for their service?

Serving on the STAT Executive Board offers both professional and personal rewards, including:

• Leadership growth: Develop strategic decision-making and governance skills.
• Networking opportunities: Connect with science education leaders across Texas and beyond.
• Recognition: Enhance your professional profile and credibility in the field.
• Career advancement: Gain experience that can open doors to new opportunities.
• Personal fulfillment: Make a meaningful impact on science education in Texas.

Many past board members have found the experience to be both rewarding and transformative!