JACKSON TWP — The Seneca Valley School Board Monday night appointed a new member to fill a vacant seat.

Kathy Whittle, 48, of Seven Fields will finish the remainder of the term after former board member Kelly Kopera resigned in November because of health concerns.

There are still two years left in the four-year term.

The board Monday night interviewed publicly both Whittle and another candidate from Evans City. Both candidates separately answered about five questions from board members about their qualifications, passions and philosophies.

The board appointed Whittle by a vote of 6-1.

During the interview process, Whittle said she has two daughters in the school district and that she’s always been active in their schooling, participating in groups like PTA and other support organizations.

She’s built relationships with many of the teachers in the district during that time, Whittle said.

“I know many of the teachers, how they operate and some of the challenges they come across,” she said.

When prompted by board member Bob Hill to describe her philosophy concerning the dire fiscal straits facing districts across the state, Whittle said it’s important to make decisions always with children in mind.

The best decision isn’t always the most popular one, she said.

“I think we have to find a way to do more with less,” she said. “Not just in education, but in life.”