Walter, Tara

Running For:

Superintendent of Schools

Political Affiliation:

Republican

Phone:

(520) 723-0694

Age:

47

Occupation:

Assistant Principal and Mayor

Education:

M.A., Northern Arizona University; Flagstaff, AZ (2013-2015) Major: Educational Leadership: Principal K-12 GPA: 4.0 M.A., Northern Arizona University; Flagstaff, AZ (2005-2007) Major: Elementary Education/Reading Specialist GPA: 3.9 B.A., SUNY College at Potsdam; Potsdam, NY (1996-2000) Majors: Elementary Education and English (Literature/Writing) GPA: 3.0 A.A., Herkimer County Community College; Herkimer, NY (1994-1996) Major: Liberal Arts Certifications: Arizona Department of Education: Principal PreK-12, Elementary Education 1-8; Other Approved Areas: Middle Grades Language Arts 7-8, Gifted, K-12, Reading Specialist, K-12, SEI, K-12

Family:

I am married with three children.

Religion:

Christian

Biographical Info:

Tara Walter lives in Anthem at Merrill Ranch, located in Florence, Arizona. She lives with her husband Jim, and their three children: Chris, Jason, and Claire. She is actively involved in community projects ranging from family oriented events to providing opportunities for children across Pinal County. As an Assistant Principal and Mayor, she currently holds dual professional roles that enable her to make a positive impact on both the community and the education system, serving as a dedicated public servant committed to improving the lives of those around her.

Tara Walter believes in term limits. While the Town of Florence does not have term limits set, she is setting the example. She established her priorities and goals, accomplishing them over the past eight years as Mayor. At this time, she plans to utilize her background, experience, and knowledge of both education and government to make a positive impact for our Pinal County Youth.

She recognized the call to civic duty when she decided to run for Florence Town Council and was appointed to her first term in June of 2012. Her council peers selected Tara to serve as Vice-Mayor in 2014. During the 2016 election, she was elected to a four year term to serve as the Mayor of the Town of Florence. In 2020, she was re-elected for a second term as mayor. In addition, she serves on the Arizona Mayors Education Roundtable, Pinal Regional Partnership: First Things First Board, and Pinal County Local Emergency Planning Committee. As a candidate for Pinal County Superintendent, Tara Walter has earned endorsements from the Arizona Police Association and United East Valley Fire Fighters.

Tara Walter has taught various grade levels from kindergarten through twelfth grade since 2000, serving the past twelve years as an administrator. She holds two master’s degrees in education from Northern Arizona University, graduating with high honors in Educational Leadership: Principal K-12 and Elementary Education; two bachelor’s degrees from the State University of New York in Elementary Education and English (Literature/Writing), and an associate degree in Liberal Arts from Herkimer County Community College. She was provided the unique opportunity to complete the second half of her student teaching experience abroad, in Newcastle Upon Tyne, England. During this experience abroad, she welcomed the opportunity to travel throughout Europe. This experience allowed her to learn and appreciate other cultures and ways of life.

Statement:

I am running for Pinal County Superintendent because I believe in the power of education to change lives. I believe that all students have the potential to be successful, and I am dedicated to creating an engaging and safe educational environment for them. I will challenge our students to reach beyond their expectations and become lifelong learners who will make the world a better place.

As Pinal County Superintendent, I will prioritize efficient management with fiscal responsibility, school safety, and supporting teachers with training opportunities. I believe in providing top-notch education for our youth, and I am committed to ensuring that our students have the resources they need to succeed.

I ask for your support and your vote to ensure that our students and schools have the best possible chance for success. Together, we can create a brighter future for Pinal County. Vote for Tara Walter for Pinal County Superintendent.