Mayor to Appoint Dr. Dara Ware Allen to School Board #2 Position

We are pleased to announce that 3rc Board Member, Dr. Dara Ware Allen has recently been given the honor to serve the children of the Pittsburgh Public Schools. We know that Dara will bring a fresh perspective to the challenges that are facing every urban school system in the U.S. Our very best to Dara in this very important public servant opportunity as she serves the City of Pittsburgh, her community, and the children in our region.

PITTSBURGH – August 25, 2009 – Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced today that he will appoint Dr. Dara Ware Allen to the Pittsburgh Public Schools (PPS) Board District #2 representative which was left vacant with the resignation of Heather Arnet. The Mayor will swear in Dr. Allen at 7:30 p.m. tomorrow during the PPS Board meeting located at 341 South Bellefield Avenue in Oakland.

"The interview process was a lot more difficult than I anticipated," said Ravenstahl, "with each candidate bringing something unique to the table. In the end, I chose Dr. Allen because of her extensive professional experience in working with young people and her proven commitment to the future of Pittsburgh Public Schools, our children and our City."

Dr. Allen, 36 of Highland Park and mother of two, currently serves as the executive director of YouthWorks, Inc. She holds a Ph.D. in workforce education and development/learning performance systems from Pennsylvania State University, a masters in education from Duquesne University and a B.A. in psychology from Spelman College. She will fill out the remainder of Ms. Arnet's term, which expires on December 5, 2011.

"I am humbled by this opportunity to serve the interests of all Pittsburgh Public School students and the City of Pittsburgh and am committing my best to this challenging and important role," said Dr. Allen.

Ms. Arnet resigned on June 30, 2009, about a year-and-a- half into her term, citing the need to concentrate on her professional job.

Eight Interested candidates submitted resumes and letters of intent to the Mayor's office by the application deadline. The Mayor interviewed all candidates.

August 25, 2009. Original article can be found here: here.