(GRASS VALLEY, Calif.) The Pleasant Ridge Teachers’ Association has endorsed Skyler Corcoran, Kalea Friant, and Kelly McKinley for the three trustee seats up for the November 3, election.
McKinley currently serves on the Pleasant Ridge School Board and has had two kids go through district schools. Corcoran was appointed to the board in June and has a child in the district, while Friant is running for her first term and has two kids in the district.
“Part of the reason we moved here 20 years ago was for these schools, so I’m honored to have the teachers’ support,” McKinley said. “Not only did we take part in a comprehensive interview process with the PRTA, but Kalea and Skyler and I are actively involved in youth, community, and academic programs. We know the schools. We know the families. We are acutely aware of the challenges our district faces.”
The trio also offer extensive professional experience. McKinley brings more than 24 years of experience as a paralegal and analyst and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in public administration. Corcoran is a budget analyst and previously taught kindergarten through 12th grade PE in Wyoming. Friant was an academic advisor and instructor at Chico State and career coach at Central Oregon Community College. She now focuses on homeschooling her kids at the district’s charter school where she plays an integral part in parent-teacher clubs and enhancing educational opportunities for all kids.
“I think our connection to the schools and familiarity with the education system and the community really stood out for the PRTA,” Friant said. “They were very deliberate and thorough with their endorsement, so it really means a lot to us.”
The Pleasant Ridge Teachers’ Association is composed of, and represents, certificated employees of the Pleasant Ridge School District.
Corcoran, Friant, and McKinley have also received endorsements from local leaders Chris Mertens, Edie Kodet, Laura Barhydt, Kerry Kelley, and Scott Lay.