The Ann Arbor Public Schools Board primary election on August 5, 2025, is a nonpartisan city-level election to select candidates for the Ann Arbor Public Schools Board of Education. Voters will choose from candidates seeking to serve on the board, which oversees the district's educational policies, budget, and administration for Ann Arbor, Michigan.
About This Race
The Ann Arbor Public Schools Board primary election on August 5, 2025, is a nonpartisan city-level election to select candidates for the Ann Arbor Public Schools Board of Education. Voters will choose from candidates seeking to serve on the board, which oversees the district's educational policies, budget, and administration for Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Candidates
Important Dates
Election Date
August 5, 2025
Registration Deadline
July 15, 2025
Early Voting Starts
July 26, 2025
Early Voting Ends
August 4, 2025
How to Vote
To vote in Michigan, residents must register by July 15, 2025, either online, by mail, or in person at their local clerk's office. On Election Day, August 5, 2025, voters can cast ballots at their designated polling place from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM EST; early voting is available from July 26 to August 4, 2025, and absentee ballots can be requested without excuse and returned by mail or drop box.
MD
Independent
Michael David Chen
Ann Arbor Public Schools Board Trustee
Biography
Michael David Chen is a former AAPS teacher and current educational consultant who has worked with districts across Washtenaw County on curriculum development and teacher training. His campaign focuses on restoring teacher autonomy, reducing class sizes, and expanding access to advanced placement and vocational programs.
Sarah Elizabeth Johnson is a longtime Ann Arbor parent and public school advocate with over 15 years of experience volunteering in classrooms and serving on school improvement teams. She is running to promote equitable funding, mental health resources, and transparent communication between the board and families.
Many Muslim and Arab American voters are leaning toward third-party candidates or not voting, feeling neither main candidate values their families' lives. Others are choosing between Harris and Trump.