Curran announces candidacy for BVA school board

For the MVI

North Belle Vernon resident Jack Curran announced his candidacy for Belle Vernon Area School Board.

A graduate of Penn State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in marketing, Curran grew up in Rostraver Township and has lived in North Belle Vernon his entire adult life.

“All three of my children are graduates of Belle Vernon Area High School. My family has a rich tradition of service in the school district. My grandfather was one of the first Rostraver Township commissioners. My father was a guidance counselor in Bellmar Junior High and went on to serve as Belle Vernon Area High School principal. My son. Heath, also taught at the Belle Vernon Area High School, and served as assistant principal as well,” Curran stated in his campaign announcement.

Over the years, Curran said he has been actively involved in many community roles. A North Belle Vernon councilman, he was previously appointed in 2006. He also previously served six years on the Belle Vernon Area School Board.

“With close to 20 years of experience, I have developed a deep understanding of the skills needed to contribute to making a positive impact on our community,” Curran stated. “My main priority is always putting our children first. Safety being a top priority, it’s important for our children to feel safe to be able to thrive, not only with education but with growth and development. In the fast-paced environment we live in we need parents to stay involved and actively participate in the challenges and decisions that affect our students and children.”

Curran stated one of his objectives is to “create an atmosphere where we are able to retain our faculty and administrators.

“We have to look into the root cause of why turnover in administration has been so high in the last few years,” he stated.

Curran further stated: “I would like to encourage all residents to get involved and feel like they can come to the board for questions or concerns. I promise to treat every resident with respect and openness. My approach is always fair and unbiased, which I feel is essential in fostering an inclusive environment.

“Teachers, staff, administrators, secretaries, custodians, cafeteria workers, security and bus drivers all work hard each and every day for the students and deserve our respect. We need to listen to our educators and parents, but also to the students. Only by working together can we ensure that our students thrive in learning and life.”