As a parent of two boys in the Carlisle Area School District — one of whom faces hearing challenges — I’ve experienced firsthand how vital it is for schools to listen to families, support teachers and make every child feel seen and valued. That’s why I’m running for re-election to the Carlisle Area School Board.

My family has called North Middleton Township home for many years. As a retired military spouse, I value service, accountability and community. Professionally, I’ve spent my career in retail and small-business management, where attention to detail and fiscal responsibility are essential. Those same principles guide me as chair of the CASD School Board Engagement Committee, where I’ve worked to improve transparency and strengthen communication between parents, the district and taxpayers.

I also serve as a board member for Carlisle Area Sertoma Club, Capital Area Intermediate Unit and will soon serve the State of Pennsylvania on the Infant Hearing Screening Advisory Committee Board. These various boards fuel my advocacy for students with special needs. With special education programs being cut on a national level, it is essential to have a special needs advocate represented on the board.

My priorities are clear:

• Keep politics out of classrooms and maintain local control of our schools.

• Put students first by fostering strong parent-teacher partnerships.

• Improve academic achievement across all grade levels.

• Responsibly invest taxpayer dollars in student needs, academic programs, and safe facilities.

I’m proud to run alongside other nonpartisan candidates who share a commitment to good schools, great teachers and smart budgets. Together, we can continue to ensure Carlisle schools remain a place where every child has the opportunity to succeed and every taxpayer can see the value of their investment.

Sue Bower

Candidate for Carlisle Area School Board

Read Sue's letter