Politics & Government

School Board Candidate: Angela Petersen

Candidate profile for the upcoming primary election on May 17.

Angela Petersen has been part of the Upper St. Clair School Board for about 14 years. She served three elected terms and received two appointments. 

"I am a big believer in the school district," Petersen said.

Experience is one of Petersen's strengths. She said she has been involved with all of the renovation and construction projects, starting with the high school.

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"My interest in the school district hasn't changed. I still have something to contribute," Petersen said. 

However, she hopes the board will attract new members—with children in and out of the school—in the coming years.

Find out what's happening in Upper St. Clairwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

"I feel like I bring a good work ethic to the board," Petersen said, as she explained her positive attributes as a candidate. "I also do many things outside of the meetings to show support. It's important to have community outreach.

"The hours I spend serving on the board have been some of the best volunteer hours I've ever experienced. It's rewarding to be part of the board."

Even though Petersen said the board has tried to spend money wisely, she knows many budget challenges lie ahead.

"There is no easy solution. It's going to be difficult," Petersen said. "I hate to cut programs. Children have all kinds of different interests and it's great to give them the opportunity to excel and find their career paths."

Petersen said parents may be asked to pay more for activities or sports. The board may also have to look at different teaching models.

"We're always innovative and looking for new ideas," Petersen said. "I love it. I'm very supportive of it."

Petersen wants to see the continue to be the best in Pennsylvania, if not in the nation. 

"But it would be nice not to be burdened by so much high-stakes testing. It robs time from things the kids could be doing," Petersen said.

She would also like to see the district become a model for others.

"We are successful and have a great internal program," Petersen said. "It would be nice to find a way for our good practices to be put into use in other districts."

Petersen grew up in Upper St. Clair and has three children who went through the school district.


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