Election 2025: Rickert Running For Council Rock School Board

Candidates running in the May 20 Primary for Council Rock School Board have been invited to provide background about themselves and their positions on the issues in these profiles, which will appear individually for each candidate who participates.

UPPER MAKEFIELD, PA — Democrat Cheryl Rickert is running as a cross-filed candidate, meaning her name will appear on both the Democratic and Republican ballots, for a seat on the Council Rock School Board representing Region 8. She faces Republican Hedy Ranieri, who is also running as a cross-filed candidate on both ballots. The two candidates are running to replace former board president Yota Palli, who is not running for re-election.

Region 8 includes Upper Makefield Voting Districts 1, 2, 3 and 4.

Biological Information

Name: Cheryl Rickert

Age: 41

Town of residence: Washington Crossing in Upper Makefield Township

Position sought: Council Rock School Director (Region 8)

What Towns Does your Position Cover: Upper Makefield

Party Affiliation: Democratic (cross filed)

Family: Husband (Andrew) and two sons (ages 7 and 10)

Education: Degree in Business Administration from Susquehanna University, MBA from Temple University

Occupation: Senior Product Manager for a leading supplier of global hygiene solutions

Questions

Why are you running for school board? If elected, what will your priorities be?

As a proud mother of two Council Rock elementary students—one in first grade and one in fourth—I’m deeply invested in the success of our schools and the well-being of every child in our district. I’ve lived in Upper Makefield for 12 years, and I care deeply about this community. My motivation for running isn’t political — it's personal. I’m here for our kids, our families, and our future.

With an MBA and a background in business, I bring a strong foundation in financial discipline and strategic decision-making. I believe those skills are essential for ensuring that our resources are used wisely and that we invest where it matters most: in the classroom.

If elected, my priorities will be clear: I will advocate for high-quality education, support our teachers, and ensure that parents’ voices are part of the conversation. I will be a thoughtful, data-driven decision maker who listens, learns, and leads with integrity. School boards should reflect and respond to the needs of the community they serve — and that’s exactly what I intend to do.

What do you see as the major issues facing the district and how would you address them?

In these uncertain times, Council Rock needs a school board that is focused on protecting the integrity of public education and ensuring that every student — regardless of background or ability — has the support they need to succeed. One in six students in our district receives special education services, many of which are partially funded by federal dollars. As a board member, I will advocate fiercely for the resources our schools need to continue delivering high-quality, inclusive education.

As I speak with families across the district, I consistently hear concerns about the importance of maintaining an accurate, well-rounded curriculum — one that helps students become informed, thoughtful citizens. I believe strongly in education, not indoctrination. I am deeply concerned about national efforts to politicize classrooms through book bans and curriculum restrictions. Those types of extremist policies have no place in Council Rock.

If elected, I will work to ensure our schools remain focused on academic excellence, critical thinking, and age-appropriate, fact-based learning. That means supporting teachers, respecting parents, and upholding a comprehensive and balanced curriculum across all grade levels.

How would you prioritize the numerous capital projects facing the district including the future of the Chancellor Center?

In a district of our size, with a wide range of facilities and evolving needs, it's essential to approach capital projects with a clear, long-term vision and a responsible funding strategy. While I am not yet a member of the board and therefore do not have access to the full scope of internal data and assessments, I understand the critical importance of a well-developed, district-wide facilities plan.

If elected, I will advocate for a comprehensive, transparent capital plan that prioritizes the safety, functionality, and educational value of every school building and support facility. Our students deserve modern, well-maintained learning environments, and our district staff must have adequate office space and resources to do their jobs effectively.

The future of the Chancellor Center — along with other major capital decisions — must be weighed carefully, considering both current needs and long-term impact. Given the scale and cost of these projects, the board must ensure that every dollar spent is aligned with clear strategic goals.

My focus will be on balancing fiscal responsibility with the imperative to invest in facilities that support student success now and into the future.

If elected, what would you fight to change, improve, or keep the same?

My primary reason for running is to bring thoughtful, balanced, and student-first leadership to the school board. I believe every decision we make should reflect what’s best for students — academically, emotionally, and developmentally.

If elected, I will focus on several key areas. First, we need a strong, long-term facilities maintenance plan to ensure our schools remain safe, modern, and functional for all students and staff. Second, I will prioritize student safety and well-being — both through physical security and robust mental health supports.

Another area I will strongly advocate for is special education. With one in six Council Rock students receiving special education services, it is critical that we continue to secure the funding, staffing, and support needed to help every learner thrive. I will work to ensure that all students have access to the tools and resources they need to succeed.

The board has made meaningful progress in the past two years, and I’m encouraged by the direction Council Rock is heading. I want to help build on that momentum and contribute to a district that continues to put students first and listens closely to the community it serves.