McTernan for SCASD
Kirsten McTernan is a mother of four sons, wife of an engineering professor at Penn State University, author, and educator. She has lived in the State College area for
fourteen years, where she is an active member of the community, serving in various volunteer positions. Her range of educational experiences is diverse - from having grown up overseas attending public, private and boarding schools to becoming an educator through teaching both her own children and children in our community through local co-ops. Prior to teaching, Kirsten worked in the public
relations field, managing experiential marketing events for a range of high-profile clients.
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Diverse educational opportunities need to be available so all children can thrive
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Ideological-based curriculum should be optional
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Academic excellence is key for developing our future leaders
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Safety needs to be a priority to ensure that students and teachers have the best learning and teaching environment possible
McTernan Believes:
McTernan's Experience:
AS AN EDUCATOR:
I have over 15 years of experience, where I have had to vet curriculum, manage a budget, set learning objectives, assemble educational portfolios, teach a range of subjects, direct coursework, plan field trips, etc. I’ve worked closely teaching my own children and well as other children in our community, and as a result, I have come to understand the range of unique
learning styles and ways to implement coursework to meet those needs.
AS AN AUTHOR:
I have helped countless families, through my book and speaking engagements, to reduce overwhelm and provide practical solutions for the home educator. My book has been a valuable resource for those deciding if homeschool is right for their family, to those in the midst of it.
AS A COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER:
I have served in various roles to help my community. Through these experiences, I have a greater understanding of the unique needs of my community, and have made many wonderful connections and friends along the way! Some of the volunteer efforts I've participated in include: directing a homeschool elective program, leading a parent support group, managing an online homeschool resource page, speaking to local groups, coordinating a MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers)
group, making meals for locals in need, and greeting at my local church.
©2025 by Kirsten McTernan