SHALER AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
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Jerry Dickinson Is Advocating for Justice haler area school district SHALER AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS
Shaler Area High School alumnus Jerry Dickinson serves as the Dean and a Professor of Law at the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. After graduating Shaler Area High School in 2005, Dickinson earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Sociology from College of the Holy Cross. He was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship to study at the University of the Witwatersrand School of Law in Johannesburg, South Africa, where he earned a Master of Laws( LL. M.). He subsequently completed his Juris Doctor( JD) at Fordham University School of Law in New York City.
Dickinson’ s interest in law was sparked by his own insight into the inequities that exist in our communities and the powerful effect advocacy can have. He shares,“ Growing up in a multiracial foster home in Shaler Township, I experienced firsthand the challenges of systemic inequities, which inspired my interest in law and civil rights. My Fulbright experience in South Africa further solidified my commitment to advocacy and constitutional law. What I enjoy most is the opportunity to inspire future lawyers and contribute to meaningful social change through my research and teaching.”
Dickinson credits his time in the district with laying a robust foundation for his career pursuits. He reflects,“ Shaler Area High School provided a strong foundation for my education and instilled in me the importance of perseverance and community. The supportive environment and dedicated teachers encouraged me to aim high and embrace leadership roles. During my time at Shaler Area, I served as senior class president, editor-in-chief of The Oracle, captained the boys’ soccer team, and was the placekicker for the football team. These experiences allowed me to embrace all three worlds of academics, athletics, and extracurricular activities to build the leadership skills that prepared me for a career serving the public interest.”
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Jennifer Tressler Named Director of Finance and Operations
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The Shaler Area School District Board of School Directors appointed Jennifer Tressler as the new Director of Finance and Operations. In this pivotal leadership role, she will assist the school board and leaders of the district in forming and executing a cohesive financial strategy. Ms. Tressler brings strong people skills, proven financial acumen, and strategic planning that will benefit the Shaler Area School District. A Certified Public Accountant, Ms. Tressler has most recently served as the Chief Financial Officer and Board Treasurer for Duquesne City School District. During her time at Duquesne City School District, the district’ s fund balance grew by over $ 2 million, including the first positive net gains in five years.
Superintendent Dr. O’ Black shared,“ The appointment of Ms. Tressler as Director of Finance and Operations represents a key step in advancing the Shaler Area School District’ s mission of fiscal stewardship and educational excellence. Her impressive financial expertise, strategic vision, and commitment to public education will undoubtedly strengthen our district’ s capacity to serve students, staff, and families.”