If you’re looking to join the Board of Education in Lakewood, Now may be your chance.

Candidates seeking school board seats have until 4 p.m., Monday, July 31 to file their nominating petitions at the Ocean County Clerk’s Office in order to have their name placed on the Nov. 7 General Election Ballot, according to Ocean County Clerk Scott M. Colabella.

Nominating petitions for School Board can be obtained in person at either the Ocean County Clerk’s Main Office, at the Ocean County Courthouse, Election Services, Room 107 at 118 Washington St., Toms River, or at the Ocean County Southern Service Center, 179 South Main St., Manahawkin. The offices are staffed from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

“The Ocean County Clerk’s Office makes every effort to inform potential candidates of approaching filing deadlines,” said Ocean County Freeholder John P. Kelly, who serves as liaison to the County Clerk. “Through the office’s website, social media, and other avenues, County Clerk Colabella provides the information needed by both candidates and voters.”

Colabella noted it was important that candidates get their paperwork in on time.

“This is what guarantees their place on the ballot,” said Ocean County Freeholder Director Joseph H. Vicari.

Colabella noted that all Ocean County school districts now hold their Board of Education elections in November.

“A law signed by the Governor in 2014 moved the petition filing deadline for school board candidates from June to the last Monday in July to provide candidates with more time to submit their petitions,” Colabella said.

A total of 68 school board seats will appear on the November ballot in various school districts throughout Ocean County.

In Lakewood, multiple seats will be up for grabs. Several members are up for reelection, and Moshe Raitzik – candidate for Township Committee – will not seek reelection.

School board candidates seeking additional information on the petition filing process can contact the Ocean County Clerk’s Election Office at (732) 929-2153.