An informational session for prospective candidates interested in running for the Austin School Board was held on Wednesday night.

Superintendent David Krenz said that these types of informational meetings provide individuals an avenue to ask questions pertaining to responsibilities that a new board member would have.

“Even if some candidates couldn’t have attended, I want to offer them an opportunity and discuss responsibilities and expectations,” Krenz said. “I just want to make sure that everyone has the information they need to move forward.”

Four seats are up for election this November, which are currently filled by Chairwoman Angie Goetz and board members Peggy Young, Don Fox and Kathy Green.

Two individuals attended the session — which was considered to be an average number for turnout, Krenz noted — and were able to get their questions answered.

Attendees were also given a packet with information about the filing process and fees, as well as outlining expectations they were to have.

Public school districts in Minnesota are governmental subdivisions of the state and are public corporations named by state statute.

Boards “have the authority to govern, manage, and control the district and to carry out duties and responsibilities, and conduct the business of the district, including implied powers in addition to any specific powers granted by legislature,” according to the statute.

Here’s some important takeaways if you were considering running for elections:

•Filing dates are July 31 through 5 p.m. on Aug. 14, and candidates can file in the district’s business office found in the northeast corner of Austin High School between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 4 p.m.

•The filing fee to run for school board elections is $2

•General election takes place on Nov. 6

•The term for school board members runs for four years, and would run from Jan. 1, 2019 through Dec. 31, 2022