Politics & Government

North Allegheny School Board Winners: Time for 'New Ideas'

Newcomers Scott Russell and Tara Fisher won both the Democratic and Republican nominations for North Allegheny School Directors.

Propelled by their unified opposition to closing any of North Allegheny's elementary schools, newcomers Scott Russell and Tara Fisher, along with incumbent Ralph Pagone swept both parties' primaries for North Allegheny school director Tuesday.

"The election results show that the community was united and energized behind a common cause," said Russell.

That common cause was rejection of a proposal to close Peebles Elementary School after the 2013-2014 school year. The three candidates were supported by the community group, Save NA Schools, which Fisher founded last year to fight the closing of any of the district's seven elementary schools.

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"There is a strong sentiment to move the district forward with new ideas and initiatives," said Fisher.

Fisher and Russell say they have three key priorities:

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  1. Establish a long-term financial plan that forecasts for future obligations, including a reserve for pension contributions.
  2. Preserve the district's outstanding programs in academics, arts, and athletics through new revenue raising initiatives.  
  3. Engage the community by establishing a district advisory committee to address key issues.

Over the past year, members of the community have repeatedly asked the school board for the formation of a community task force to consider alternatives to closing an elementary school. The board has taken no action on that request.

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