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School Director - PPS DISTRICT 3

Watch our student-led PPS School Director Forum to learn more!School Directors are elected on behalf of the community to oversee the education of students in their jurisdiction. They serve as agents of the state legislature. They are responsible for curriculum and instruction management; all finances including development of annual budgets and levying of taxes and issuance of debt obligations when necessary; personnel; legal matters; management of facilities; and transportation of students as appropriate. Schools may include pre-K and career and technical schools.

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  • Candidate picture

    Tonya Fores
    (Dem)

  • Candidate picture

    Erikka Grayson
    (Dem)

Biographical Information

As school director how would you support middle and high school students who rely on public transportation to get to and from school in light of the cuts in service recently proposed by Pittsburgh Regional Transit?

How would you address anticipated shortfalls in school funding over the next few years? Please be specific.

The Pittsburgh Public Schools Utilization Plan outlines changes to school boundaries and the repurposing of certain school buildings to optimize resources to address enrollment trends. How would you balance the need for efficient resource management while ensuring that all students have access to high-quality educational opportunities?

Campaign Web Site http://tonyafores pps.org
Occupation Transportation Supervisor
Qualifications for office Leadership & Management Experience, Budgeting & Resources Allocation and Student Safety & Well-being.
Education Connelly Trade School
As a candidate for School Director in PPS District 3, I believe that reliable transportation is fundamental to ensuring equitable access to education. The proposed service cuts by Pittsburgh Regional Transit could significantly impact many of our middle and high school students who rely on public transit to get to and from school each day. Every student deserves to get to school safely and on time—without barriers that compromise their education, well-being, or future. If elected, I will make transportation a top priority and advocate for practical, student-centered solutions that ensure all students can access the education they deserve.
As a candidate for School Director in PPS District 3, I recognize the urgent need to balance fiscal responsibility with our district's fundamental mission: providing every student with a high-quality education. This commitment is especially critical in a time when we are facing two deeply interconnected challenges—shifting student enrollments and facility use, and significant anticipated funding shortfalls. I will lead with fiscal discipline and an unwavering commitment to equity, ensuring our students always come first.
As candidate for School Director in PPS District 3, I will guide tough decisions—like boundary shifts and facility use—through transparent, equity-driven planning and bridge budget gaps with audits, efficiency measures, grants, and community partnerships. I’ll also fight for fair state funding and engage families, educators, and students at every step, keeping their needs at the heart of our district’s future.
Campaign Web Site http://www.erikkagrayson.com
Occupation Director of Community and Engagement
Qualifications for office I'm a proud public school graduate, mother of three PPS students, and a dedicated advocate for District 3. As a parent advocate at Miller Elementary and leader with the Early Excellence Project, I’ve worked to expand access to high-quality education and support for our kids. My background as a project manager equips me with skills in budgeting, strategy, and collaboration—tools I’ll use to fight for equitable, student-centered policies on the school board.
Education University of Pittsburgh- Degree in Health Information Mang. MBA - Point Park University
Facebook voteerikka grayson
Instagram / TikTok erikkabrittany_
As School Director, I would advocate for stronger partnerships between PPS and Pittsburgh Regional Transit to ensure reliable, safe transportation for our students. I’d push for priority routes during school hours and explore PPS-funded transit passes or shuttles where service has been cut. I’d also engage families and students to understand their needs and work with city and state leaders to restore and protect critical transit services that impact school attendance and safety.
To address funding shortfalls, I’d push for a full audit to identify inefficiencies and redirect funds to classrooms and student support. I’d advocate for fair state funding based on the Basic Education Funding Commission’s recommendations and build partnerships with community organizations to enhance services without raising costs. I’d also support pursuing grants and alternative funding sources to protect core programs. Every dollar should directly support student learning, equity, and long-term success.
Balancing efficiency with equity means making data-informed decisions while centering community voices. I’d ensure families are engaged early and transparently in any proposed changes. We must protect access to high-quality programs in every neighborhood and prioritize investments in under-resourced schools. When repurposing buildings, I’d advocate for using them in ways that still serve students and families. Resource optimization should never come at the cost of educational opportunity or student well-being.