The Keystone Education Report is a dynamic program produced by the Pennsylvania School Boards Association (PSBA) that brings together the voices shaping public education in the commonwealth. Each episode will feature in-depth, conversational interviews with key education stakeholders — superintendents, school board directors, administrators, legislators and other influential leaders — as they explore the most pressing issues facing our schools today. Following the interviews, we will host a thought-provoking panel discussion, where diverse perspectives come together to spark ideas, share solutions and inspire action.
Elevating the conversation on public education in the commonwealth
The Keystone Education Report (KER) is a dynamic program by the Pennsylvania School Boards Association (PSBA) that highlights the voices shaping public education in Pennsylvania. Each episode features engaging interviews with superintendents, school board members, legislators and other key leaders, offering insights into the challenges and innovations impacting schools across the commonwealth.
What makes KER unique?
KER goes beyond the headlines. It offers a platform for thoughtful dialogue and meaningful exchange. After each interview segment, the program transitions to a panel discussion where diverse perspectives are brought to the table. These discussions are designed to:
- Explore the most pressing issues facing public education today.
- Share practical solutions and innovative strategies.
- Encourage collaboration among education professionals and policymakers.
- Inspire action and advocacy at the local and state levels.
Why it matters
With evolving student needs, shifting policy landscapes and increasing demands on schools, it’s more important than ever to foster informed conversations and collaborative problem-solving. KER provides a space where these conversations can thrive — grounded in experience, driven by data and focused on solutions.
Watch the most recent episode here
Explore the important role interscholastic athletics play in K-12 public education in the latest episode of Keystone Education Report. Join Mark Byers and Jennifer Grassel from the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA) for a discussion on Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL), student-athlete well-being and participation. Learn how school sports help students succeed both on and off the field and the many ways they impact the whole school community.
Panelists
Mark E. Byers has served PIAA for more than 26 years, joining the organization as assistant executive director before becoming chief operating officer in 2012 and executive director in 2026. Throughout his career, Mark has served as tournament director for PIAA Championships in golf, soccer, cross country, wrestling, basketball, track and field, and baseball. He has also played a key role in member school compliance, eligibility, and the growth of sports, including girls’ wrestling and girls’ flag football. In 2021, Mark received the NFHS Citation for his contributions to high school activity programs nationwide. A 1993 graduate of Carlisle High School, he holds a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in education with a concentration in sports management from East Stroudsburg University, where he also played soccer.
Jennifer S. Grassel is the senior director of member schools and sports for PIAA, where she has served for more than 10 years. She oversees bylaw interpretation, coaches’ education, student leadership and services, and member school services, while also serving as tournament director for tennis, basketball, competitive spirit, and volleyball championships.
Prior to joining PIAA, Jennifer spent nine years as an assistant women’s basketball coach at Shippensburg University. A former basketball standout at Shippensburg and Washington Township High School (NJ), she holds a bachelor’s degree in mathematics education and a master’s degree in organizational development and leadership.
Host
Nathan G. Mains
Show Producer
Torie Tezik
Video Producer
Cody Roadcap
Special Thanks
Alec Petrillo
Christina Griffiths
Erika Houser
Fawn McClure
Jackie Inouye
Mackenzie Christ
Madison Griffith
Megan Orehek
New episodes air monthly at pcntv.com
