Education & Training

Laura Fridirici, Career Readiness Advisor and Consultant to the Secretary of Education - Pa. Dept. of Education

The Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) oversees 500 public school districts, more than 170 public charter schools, public cyber charter schools, career and technology centers/vocational technical schools, public intermediate units, the education of youth in State Juvenile Correctional Institutions, Head Starts and publicly funded preschools, and community colleges. PDE also oversees policies related to public, academic, and school libraries, and the State Library of Pennsylvania.

Jessica Peconi-Cook, Executive Director - SHAPE PA

The Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE PA) provides leadership, advocacy and professional development to health and physical educators for overall wellness in PA . Jessica Peconi-Cook is a former health and physical educators of 8 years in the Mt. Lebanon School District. She has been serving as the Executive Director for SHAPE PA for 3 years. She works as a line cook on the weekends for fun and enjoys staying active through running and yoga.

Britnee Weatherspoon, Ed.D. Clairton City School District - District Administrator K-12

Dr. Britnee Weatherspoon serves as a District Administrator at Clairton City School District where she oversees attendance; coordination of social services and school health initiatives; and serves as the homeless and foster care liaison. Dr. Weatherspoon is also a National Cadre Trainer for the Dove Self-Esteem Project. Her passion and experience align with incorporating the Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child (WSCC) model to improve school health policies and practices. Dr. Weatherspoon is passionate about creating healthier school and community environments for underserved populations.