If you’ve ever thought about running for school board, borough council or township board, an upcoming Penn State Extension workshop called ‘Toss Your Hat in the Ring,’ is your chance to learn how to do it.
“The people who run our local governments are our friends and neighbors — people just like us,” said Neal Fogle, Penn State Extension educator. “You don’t need special training or experience to serve your township, borough or school district. If you’re interested in serving, care about your community, and are willing to learn on the job, we’d like to encourage you to toss your hat in the ring.”
The workshop will be held locally from 7 to 9 p.m. on Feb. 11 (snow date Feb. 13) at the Willowbank Building, 420 Holmes Street, Bellefonte. Registration is $25 and can be completed online here.
‘Toss Your Hat in the Ring’ will include:
– An overview of Pennsylvania local government and the responsibilities of a township supervisor, a borough council member, or a school board director – presented by a Penn State Extension Educator;
– Instructions on how to run: filing a petition, reporting campaign expenses and other important information presented by Joyce McKinley, director, Centre County Elections office.; and
– A panel of local officials who will talk about why they decided to run for office and some of their experiences since they were elected.
The workshop won’t offer campaign tips or strategies, but rather the focus is on understanding the roles, responsibilities and personal rewards that come with public service.
