School Board Candidate: Barbara Bolas

Barbara Bolas believes serving on the school board is an investment in education and an investment in the future. 

"With the hard economic times and problems happening in the world, it's more important than ever to have a quality education," Bolas said.

Bolas' experience on the Upper St. Clair School Board dates back to 1985 when she was first elected to serve as a director. She lost the next election, and ran again two years later. Bolas has been on the board ever since.

Bolas has also served as president of the Pennsylvania School Boards Association and president of the National School Boards Association. Bolas said her experience at these levels give her a better global perspective.

Thinking out of the box is a must for the school board as the state funding cuts loom, she said. Bolas thinks by exploring different ideas and using creativity, the school board will be able to solve the projected budget shortfall. As teachers and faculty members retire from the school district, Bolas said the school board must figure out how to better fill the positions.

"I think difficult times like these provide opportunities," Bolas said. "It's a chance to do things differently and better."

Bolas and her husband bought a house in Upper St. Clair in 1975 and still live there now. Their two children went through the school district, and Bolas continues to choose to stay active on the school board.

"It's my community. I've made a commitment that Upper St. Clair is my home and I believe in giving back with my service," Bolas said. "I believe in volunteering and I feel fortunate to have the opportunity to serve."