Trina Johnson — Chester Upland School District

This installment of our series of interviews with school director candidates across Pennsylvania brings us to the Chester Upland School District.

Trina Johnson is running for school director in the Chester Upland School District, located in Delaware County. She is a registered Republican and a tax advocate worker.

Why are you running for school board? 

I am passionate about preserving and improving the quality of our school district. First, the district needs to exit receivership, and we need ongoing training and development to enhance teaching skills and keep teachers up to date. Fostering a positive and inclusive school climate and increasing funding and resources are also important, in addition to strengthening parent and community engagement.  And the list goes on. I want to be a part of the preparation and progression to support our children with what they need and deserve and to see it through. With three open seats on the board, this is my chance to help with moving our district forward.  So I am committing myself to run for one of those seats.  

What are the most important issues facing your district?

Charter school enrollment, being under receivership, and our fiscal stability.

What is your professional background/experience? What skills would you bring to the board?

My background consists of customer service, data entry, machine operator, and truck driver, as well as running business processes. My endeavors consist of strategizing and resolving issues.

Have you run for political office previously? Have you been politically active?

No, I have not run for political office before but have always been interested in making a difference as it pertains to children. 

Are you running with other candidates?

No group effort.

What is the most important role of the school board in your opinion? 

To have a clear direction and high expectations for teaching and learning that will continuously improve our student outcomes.

Please list any campaign websites and social media sites.

I am not active on social media, although some of what I have been involved in doing has been posted on Facebook by others.  I am of the opinion that boots on the ground will always allow for a greater reach.

We contacted the Democratic and Republican committees in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Lancaster, Lehigh, and Montgomery counties and asked them to share the questions with their school director candidates. Broad + Liberty will post the responses throughout the summer to assist voters in learning about the candidates running in their district. The series is open to any school director on the ballot in November. Please contact barosica@broadandliberty.com for more information.