Meet School Board Candidate Sandra A. Miller

Sandra A. Miller

Age: 51

Family: Husband Peter Kowalski, sons Patrick and Sean

Politcal Party Affiliation: Republican

Tell us about your educational background: BA  Penn State University, Policy Analysis; MPA Penn State University, Public Administration, Health Care Policy

Tell us about your professional/business background:

Declined to answer

Why are you running for school board?

I am running to support the community and the school system.  We need dedicated individuals who want to do the best for the community and the students who attend our schools.  Our housing values are directly influenced by the quality of our schools and we all need to invest in education.

What qualifies you to serve on the board?

• 7 years as School Director
• 6 years, Policy Specialist for Commonwealth of PA
• 6 years, Administrator for the world’s largest private provider of dialysis services.
• Parent and volunteer of Saucon Valley

What do you see as the board's primary role and responsibilities?

The primary role of a Board member is to balance the needs of the students with fiscal restraint in these difficult economic times.  Providing a quality education within the means of the district is the prudent way to maintain the system for the long term.  We have reduced expenditures in all areas without yet cutting very deep into programs.  This year, we are looking at reducing course selections which must be reviewed more closely. A Board Member cannot forget that we are representatives not just of taxpayers, but students and parents as well.

What's your position on outsourcing school bus drivers' jobs?

I believe in local jobs and maintaining our fleet.  However, I will not sacrifice major instructional programs if the process shows huge savings and we need to find funds for our district.  Until I see the actual numbers, I will support our staff.

SV teachers went on strike in 2005, 2008 and 2009, and they are currently working without a contract. Do you support the pay freeze teachers have been asked to accept, along with other district employees? What do you think must happen to avert another strike?

Since I am on the Board presently, I do not believe that I should answer any questions that are related to negotiations.  Both sides are working towards a resolution and my opinion should not be separated publicly in this forum at this time.

We as a community need to compromise and I believe that all sides are working towards that end.  A strike is a lose-lose solution.  The community is torn apart. Trust and support of our staff is eroded.  We all must work together.

Tell us about any other major challenges facing the school district and how you would address them. (Please be as specific as possible):

Declined to answer

How much are you spending to run? How is your campaign being funded?

I am not planning on exceeding the cost of the signs I will need and I have not received any financial support from any group or individual.  

What, if any, endorsements have you received?

I have not been publicly endorsed by any group or individual.

Do you use social media? If so, please provide links to your Facebook and Twitter.

Declined to answer