Board of School Directors
The Board of School Directors of Northgate School District consists of nine members elected for staggered four-year terms and serve without compensation. In December of each year, the Board elects a President and Vice President. Serving in these positions are Cheryl Patalano as President, Wendi Lee as Vice President, and Mike Rajakovic as Treasurer. Student representatives are selected by the Student Council, serve as a resource to the Board and present a monthly report on student activities.
Board Responsibilities
The Board has ultimate responsibility, under Pennsylvania School Law, in the following areas:
- Exercising leadership and establishing policies for the operation of local schools.
- Employing and evaluating the Superintendent of Schools.
- Authorizing the appointment of teachers and other staff members.
- Determining education standards and goals.
- Securing finances for school operational needs and building programs, and authorizing specific expenditures.
- Expressing and representing the views of the community in matters affecting education.
- Planning and establishing district-wide goals.
- Establishing and adopting the annual budget.
Addressing Concerns
Residents are encouraged to address issues or concerns with the appropriate school personnel to determine if the matter can be resolved with the Teacher or Administrator most closely associated with the situation. If the concern is not resolved at the teacher, counselor or building principal level, a member of the Central Office Administrative Staff is available to hear your concern and take appropriate action. If such action is not satisfactory, the resident’s final appeal is with the Board of School Directors.
Seeking Board Director - The Northgate Board of School Directors is seeking an applicant to fill a School Director position due to a resignation. The term will end December 2027. Any Avalon or Bellevue resident interested in filling this Board vacancy must submit a letter of interest along with qualifications and experiences to Emily Carter, Board Secretary, 591 Union Ave., Pgh., PA 15202 or emily.carter@northgatesd.net. This information must be received by Emily Carter no later than September 7, 2026 for the applicant to receive consideration.
Eligibility for Board membership includes: a citizen of the Commonwealth, 18 years of age or older, a person of good moral character and a resident of the School District for at least one year prior to the date of appointment. Interviews by invite only will be held Monday, September 14, 2026 at 7:00 p.m., directly following the Board meeting, in the Administrative Center Boardroom, 591 Union Ave., Pgh., PA 15202. At their Monday, September 28, 2026 regular Board meeting, which is scheduled at 5:30 p.m., the Board will appoint an applicant to fill the vacant Board Director position. A majority vote by the Board is required to confirm the appointment. Board Directors are considered volunteers and the positions are unpaid.