Eligibility Requirements

2026 Governing Board Applications are now live. Click here to apply.

NAEYC members in good standing are eligible for Board service. Any such member is welcome to apply for consideration by the Governance Committee, which is responsible for constructing each year’s slate. Inclusion on the slate is contingent upon completion of background checks. Additionally, the following limitations have been placed on the selection of candidates:

• Individuals who have had a contract with NAEYC or any of its Affiliates within 12 months of the date of application are not eligible for consideration as a potential candidate (does not include honoraria).
• No former employee of NAEYC should be considered for Board service until three (3) years have passed since their last day of employment.
• Student Board Members must be a currently registered and enrolled students engaged in a program of study leading to an undergraduate degree at a regionally accredited college or university during the quarter (or semester) in which elected. Student Board Members must maintain their registered and enrolled student status throughout their term unless they graduate.

Application

The following materials are required:

• Résumé: Outline your employment history, relevant board or governance experience, and any publications, awards, or notable accomplishments relevant to the position(s) for which you are applying.
• Personal Statement (maximum 800 words): Describe how your knowledge, skills, and experience align with and would support NAEYC’s current Strategic Direction.
• References: Provide two professional letters of recommendation that highlight your qualifications as a prospective Board member. Note: Current NAEYC Governing Board or staff members may not serve as references. One letter must be from your current employer or supervisor. If you are self-employed, please provide a letter from your most recent client.

Application and Selection Process

2026 Governing Board Applications are now live. Click here to apply.

The Governance Committee will review all submissions and select a group of candidates for virtual interviews in September. Following interviews and internal deliberations, the Committee will recommend a proposed slate to the Governing Board for approval in October. Typically, two candidates are recommended per available position. All individuals on the recommended slate must complete a criminal background check and sexual offender registry check. For details, see the Background Screening guidelines.

Timeline

• June 15, 2026: Applications open
• July 31, 2026: Application deadline
• September 2026: Virtual candidate interviews and Governance Committee deliberations
• October 2026: Governing Board votes on slate
• December 2026: Slate is announced, candidates are introduced at Annual Conference* and elections open. All eligible NAEYC members receive voting instructions via email.
• February 8, 2027: Election closes and results announced within one week.
• September 1, 2027: New board members are seated

*Student candidates who are selected for the final slate will receive financial support to attend Annual Conference in Washington, DC.

Any member in good standing is eligible to apply for the Governing Board. All nominees are also required to submit an application by 11:59 p.m. ET on July 31, 2026, to be considered. 

2026 Governing Board Applications are now live. Click here to apply.