Highlands School District residents in Region 3 will see a choice of two people seeking a four-year term on the school board.
Newcomers Clint Crowell and Aasta Deth, both cross-filed, are vying to fill the seat of Ashley Javier, who is stepping down.
Crowell, 43, is a teacher at Freeport Area Middle School. Deth, 41, is a self- employed arts marketer.
Both said they decided to run for school board to act as an advocate for students.
“Our schools are where our kids develop the skills and character that shape not just their futures, but the future of our communities,” Crowell said.
“They’re where we beam with pride when students shine in classrooms, on stages and on athletic fields. I’m running for school board to support the future of our children and ensure that Highlands continues to be a source of pride — one that positively impacts every neighborhood, every family and every child in our district.”
Deth said she was inspired to run for office through her work in a mentorship group that helps parents navigate special education services.
“Our kids deserve a strong advocate for their educational success,” Deth said.
“We need to support programs that foster student equity. I love this town and our school district, but I see so many ways we can improve student outcomes.
“Many students have personal struggles that can disrupt their learning,” she said. “I believe that we are as strong as our community, and I hope to join with the Highlands community to find solutions.”
Region 3 covers a large portion of Harrison. It stretches from Route 28 to the Allegheny River, from Silverlake Park to the Freeport border in one section and from Alsco Park to Freeport in another.
Deth said disruption in federal support for public school systems is a concern. She believes there are looming challenges for special education and school revenue.
“There are no easy answers, but I would address the needs of the schools through strategic community partnerships (with nonprofits or mentorships) to bring a wider range of learning opportunities and explore alternative revenue sources for the district,” Deth said.
She is interested in green energy programs that could spur income for the district through solar panels. It puts energy back into the grid and slashes utility expenses for the schools, she said.
Deth also would like to reshape student discipline with a more restorative approach.
“Punishing through suspension alone doesn’t solve the issue,” she said. “We need to look at programs where the students understand the damage of their actions and gives an option to fix it. They need to be part of the solution.”
For Crowell, he believes the main issues facing district families include student achievement, school culture and fiscal responsibility.
Highlands has many academic successes to celebrate, he said, but overall student achievement needs improvement.
“Adjusting curriculum, supporting teachers and reviewing state testing practices are key to ensuring that all students succeed,” Crowell said. “Culture concerns like bullying, discipline and staff turnover require focused attention.”
If elected, Crowell said, he would engage stakeholders and review current practices to make informed, positive changes.
“My career in education has shown me the financial realities districts face,” he said. “I’m committed to making student-centered spending decisions that are responsible now and in line with future projected budgets.”
In recent years the district has made efforts to address bullying, a concern expressed by many families.
Crowell said all students deserve to feel safe and valued to find success in the classroom.
“I believe stopping bullying starts with a thorough review of bullying instances in our schools,” Crowell said. “Understanding the support provided to victims, along with the grade levels, locations and the roles of students involved allows us to make data-informed decisions about current practices and future plans.”
Crowell said he would advocate for prevention efforts that empower students to speak up and also strengthen support for those affected.
Deth said anti-bullying initiatives are a multi-layered issue.
Many students have personal difficulties they carry into school. Addressing the root causes of their emotional struggles can stop bullying before it starts, she said.
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“I think schools often focus on the bully over the bullied,” Deth said. “Staff needs the resources to truly help students.”
If elected, Deth said, she would work to implement easy, safe ways for students to report bullying and get help and mediation from a professional.
“There should be zero-tolerance towards bullying,” she said, “but punishment without action to reverse the behavior and restore student safety will make the problem worse.”