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
Join us for a conversation with three school board secretaries: Alyssa Cook of the School District of the City of Erie, Betsy Gates of Dauphin County Technical School and Jaime Zimerofsky of Schuylkill Intermediate Unit 29. We’ll explore the vital role school board secretaries play in supporting effective school governance, maintaining transparency, ensuring compliance and keeping board operations running smoothly. Whether you’re a school leader, board director or community stakeholder, this discussion will provide valuable insights into one of public education’s most important behind-the-scenes roles.
Panelists
Alyssa Cook is an accomplished public education administrator and community leader who serves as board secretary for School District of the City of Erie. In this role, she supports board governance, legal administration, public transparency and effective communication while helping advance the district’s commitment to student success and community engagement. Alyssa began her career with the district in 2019 as assistant board secretary and secretary to the solicitor before advancing to her current leadership position. She also has 16 years of experience as a notary public. A graduate of Strong Vincent High School and a former student of the district she now serves, Alyssa brings a personal connection to her work and a deep commitment to public education. She holds an associate degree in paralegal studies and has earned executive certificates from Case Western Reserve University’s Weatherhead School of Management, along with specialized training in school board governance. Beyond her professional responsibilities, Alyssa is dedicated to mental health awareness, crisis prevention and community service. She has completed training in suicide prevention and trauma-informed care and serves in various volunteer and leadership roles that support students, families and the broader Erie community.
Betsy Gates serves as the Administrative Operations Coordinator at Dauphin County Technical School (DCTC), bringing more than five years of dedicated service to the organization. In her role, she supports operational excellence through strong organizational skills, attention to detail and a commitment to helping the school community thrive. Betsy earned her bachelor’s degree in humanities from Penn State University and has built a career centered on administrative leadership and exceptional customer service. Prior to joining DCTS, she worked as an administrative assistant/client representative for the Muscular Dystrophy Association and for Urology of Central PA as the office administrator, further strengthening her expertise in health care administration and office management. Outside of work, Betsy enjoys reading and spending time with her family.
Jaime Zimerofsky has served as the executive/board secretary at Schuylkill Intermediate Unit 29 since 2017, bringing more than 20 years of dedicated service to the organization. Outside of work, Jaime enjoys spending time with her husband and two sons and researching family history.
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
