Thomas Trauger is a Democrat and East Rockhill Township resident.
Why do you think you are qualified to effectively represent your community on the school board?
I have been a Pennridge resident since 2004 and have three children currently attending our schools, giving me both a personal and long-term investment in the success of our district. Professionally, I hold a degree in finance and work as a consultant in skilled nursing; one of the most highly regulated industries in the nation. This background has made me adept at navigating complex regulations, balancing budgets under tight funding restraints and finding creative solutions to challenges. Our district faces similar pressures including unfunded mandates from the commonwealth. I believe my experience uniquely equips me to help Pennridge build a responsible budget that supports both fiscal stability and academic excellence. I am committed to working collaboratively with fellow board members, educators and our community to ensure Pennridge students have every opportunity to succeed.
Over the past few years we have seen attempts by some school boards across Bucks County, as well as Pennsylvania and the country, to either unilaterally ban books or make it easier for community members to challenge and have books banned, often by usurping the authority of librarians and administrative leadership. What is your position on book banning, and how will you implement policies to support faculty and students?
About two years ago, school board leadership nearly tore our district apart by pursuing widespread book bans and rewriting curriculum through an open-ended contract with an outside consultant. They did not include the voices of all parents, and in doing so, attempted to limit the educational experience for every student. I do not support book banning.
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Our librarians and educators are trained professionals who carefully select materials to support curriculum, encourage critical thinking and meet the diverse needs of our students. Parents should always have the right to guide their own child’s reading but not restrict access for all. I strongly believe students should be able to explore diverse perspectives in literature. If elected, I will support policies that uphold the authority of librarians and administrators in book selections; ensure a fair and transparent review process when concerns arise and protect students’ rights to explore a wide range of ideas. At the same time, I recognize the important role of parents in their children’s education and we must continue to provide a clear opt out process. Education should expand opportunities and foster curiosity, not restrict them.
Decreasing teacher and staff retention is a growing issue school districts are facing. What is your role in the recruiting, interviewing and hiring process and what role can a school board serve to reverse this trend?
Under previous board leadership Pennridge experienced a mass exodus of teachers and staff, which created instability in classrooms and programs. I want to sincerely thank our human resources department for their dedication in recruiting for these open positions. It is clear their hard work is paying off as teachers and staff are returning to Pennridge. These efforts are critical. Without recruitment schools cannot run, students cannot learn and programs cannot thrive. As a board member, I see our role as both supporting the hiring process and ensuring that retention is a priority. Supporting both new hires and long-time staff helps them feel valued, engaged and part of the Pennridge community. Stable teachers provide continuity in instruction, build stronger relationships with students, improve academic outcomes and protect the investment we’ve made in recruiting great staff. As a board member I will advocate for mentoring, professional growth, meaningful recognition and a culture where our educators want to stay, grow and continue strengthening the district for years to come.
About two years ago, school board leadership nearly tore our district apart by pursuing widespread book bans and rewriting curriculum through an open-ended contract with an outside consultant. They did not include the voices of all parents, and in doing so, attempted to limit the educational experience for every student. I do not support book banning.
What are the school board’s biggest challenges in the coming months; the next four years?
One of the school board’s biggest challenges in the coming months and years will be strategic planning to meet the infrastructure needs of our district. By attending recent board meetings as well as finance and facilities committee sessions, it is clear that addressing these needs must be at the forefront of our work. In the short term we must ensure that our facilities are safe, dry and warm because without functional buildings there are no schools where our children can learn. At the same time, we have no option but to be financially responsible. The current situation of the district reflects a lack of foresight by previous board leadership, and we must take deliberate steps to restore fiscal stability. Looking to the long term the board must develop and implement a comprehensive plan to maintain and improve our facilities while balancing fiscal responsibility. By planning carefully and investing wisely we can provide safe, modern schools for our students while protecting taxpayers’ resources.
How will you work with administrators and fellow board members to address the district’s biggest challenges in the short and long term?
To address the district’s biggest challenges, I will work closely with administrators and fellow board members through open communication, collaboration and data-driven decision-making. Professionally, I’ve spent 25 years leading teams in skilled nursing care: balancing budgets, making complex decisions and prioritizing both transparency and compassion. This is the leadership I will bring to the board: listening first, acting with integrity and doing what’s right for our students and taxpayers. In the short term this means actively participating in each of the committees but especially with the finance and facilities committees [by] reviewing operational needs and supporting administrators as they maintain safe, functional and welcoming school environments. Over the long term I will advocate for strategic planning that balances infrastructure improvements, educational priorities and fiscal responsibility. Additionally, I will work to advocate for continued state and federal funding for public schools. We must ensure Pennridge has access to the resources needed to enhance programs, maintain facilities and provide every student with a high-quality education. Collaboration, transparency and a shared commitment to our community will guide every decision.
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