School Board honored for service-13013
Jan. 27, 2020
School Board honored for service
Members of the board of education include: Mrs. Barbara L. Bolas, president; Mr. Patrick A. Hewitt, vice-president; Mrs. Amy L. Billerbeck; Mrs. Jennifer L. Bowen; Mr. Phillip J. Elias; Dr. Daphna Gans; Mr. Louis P. Mafrice, Jr.; Mrs. Angela B. Petersen; and Mrs. Jennifer A. Schnore.
“We are so grateful to be surrounded by a board of school directors that remains focused on providing the very best opportunities for the children of this community,” Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Rozzo, said. “We could not be more thankful for their service.”
Results of a PSBA survey indicate that the typical Pennsylvania school director devotes an average of 6-10 hours per month to school board business, which includes important issues such as school safety and security, budgeting, policy, hiring as well as curriculum and textbooks.
“In addition to attending board meetings, our school directors are extremely visible within our community and can be found at parent and community meetings, athletic events, concerts and performances as well as advocating for high quality public education for all,” Dr. Rozzo said. “The time that our school board members devote to our district and our community is truly remarkable.”
In a PSBA survey, 50 percent of school directors identified public service and the desire to give back and contribute to public education as the primary motivating factor in their decision to run for school director.
“Most importantly, our school board members understand that our people are our greatest asset,” Dr. Rozzo said. “The level of trust and respect between and among students, families, staff and board members results in a collegial community that’s focused on doing what’s right for students.”
According to the PSBA website, “In January, we pause to salute a group of nine people who spend dozens of hours each month voluntarily leading our schools and making difficult decisions – they are the school directors.”
In recognition of their service, each Upper St. Clair school board member received a canvas bag imprinted with the district’s logo, which was filled with cookies and other items. The bags were printed by students in the SHOP@USC program. SHOP@USC (Showing How Opportunity Pays @ Upper St. Clair) is a fully-inclusive student-run business housed within Upper St. Clair High School’s Innovation Hub. Students in the Life Skills program and their regular education partners design and manufacture USC spirit-wear products while learning how to develop a business plan that includes all aspects such as pricing, marketing, sales and inventory of products.
In addition, board members were invited to select a book of their choice from the Dr. Patrick O’Toole Leadership Library, which features numerous books on leadership, management, education and other related topics. The library, named for the district’s retired superintendent, is located on the second floor of the District Administration Building.
- PSBA: Did you know? (fact sheet about Pennsylvania school boards)
- PSBA’s Resolution declaring January School Director Recognition Month