Tarla Bates – PISD School Board Candidate, Place 6

I am the daughter of Annie Bates and the late George “Peewee” Bates.

I currently work as a classroom teacher at Upshur County Discipline Alternative School. In this position, I can work in a small setting with troubled youth. It is truly a labor of love. I have worked in various capacities (teacher, coordinator, administrator) for 23 years in several public schools in Texas. I began my career in education as a paraprofessional in the life skills classroom at Pittsburg High School in 1994.

I have a bachelor’s degree in Speech Communications, a Masters in Educational Leadership, Texas teaching certificates in Speech and a current Texas Principal Certification.

I am an educational advocate for students. After moving home to Pittsburg two and a half years ago and attending PISD school activities, I became motivated to do more to make a difference in the school district and community that I love. My experience as an educator has prepared her for a position on the PISD school board.

I am a 1986 graduate of PHS, mother of 2003 graduate Sean Cooper, mother in law of 2002 graduate Amanda Cooper and Nene to 3 beautiful grandchildren.

“This is not just a position it is a purpose. I am committed to the future of PISD and want to play an integral part in its continued progress towards excellence.”