Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools Board of Education primary election results

March 4, 2026 - 13:11

Voters have narrowed the field for the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Board of Education, setting the stage for the November general election. The primary, held on March 5th, determined which candidates will advance to compete for the district’s three at-large seats.

The results indicate a clear direction from the electorate. Incumbent board member Deanna Kaplan secured the top spot among at-large candidates, demonstrating strong support. She will be joined on the November ballot by challengers Robert Barr, Sarah Absher, and Sabrina Coone-Godfrey. These four candidates emerged from a larger field, with others not advancing past the primary.

The focus now shifts to the fall, where these candidates will campaign for the three available positions. The board oversees one of North Carolina's largest school districts, making these races critical for shaping local education policy, budgeting, and strategic priorities. Voter turnout and engagement in the primary suggest a heightened public interest in the direction of the school system, setting up a consequential election this autumn.