Michelle Palmer

Democratic

On ballot as: Michelle Palmer
Current role: History and government teacher
Background: Bachelor's degree, University of Houston, 1994
Teacher since 2009, including math, ELA and social studies (per campaign)
Born in Stanton, Texas
Experience: Democratic nominee, State Board of Education District 6 (2020 and 2022)
Lost both general elections to Republican Will Hickman
Top priorities: Science: "Climate change needs to be taught to the people who will have to live with it or fix it"
"Our students need a curriculum that is based on facts"
Wants "clear data" on special education in charter schools and "accountability and transparency on how public funds are spent"
Health education: supports "actively teaching consent"
Tidbits: Curriculum and instructional materials: Campaign site, as quoted by Ballotpedia: "Our students need a curriculum that is based on facts."
Library books: No public statement found
School funding and bonds: In a 2026 ATPE candidate survey: "Funding is the #1 issue facing public education in Texas."
Vouchers / school choice: On charter schools, in a 2026 ATPE candidate survey: "I would put a pause on new charter approvals until the current charter systems can be audited."
Endorsements: Texas AFL-CIO
Texas AFT
Texas Gulf Coast Area Labor Federation, AFL-CIO
Houston LGBTQ+ Political Caucus
Campaign website: palmerfortexased.com

Member, State Board of Education, District 6