Celebrating a Career of Service and Leadership
Forest Area School District proudly recognizes and celebrates the retirement of East Forest Principal, Mrs. Debra Arner.
After earning a master’s degree in Criminology in 1981 and later completing an Educational Specialist degree in School Psychology in 2000, Mrs. Arner dedicated a career to supporting children, families, and communities through a variety of roles in education, mental health, social services, and law enforcement.
Before entering public education, Deb served as a police officer with the Clarion Borough Police Department, an adult probation officer with Clarion County, and an adjunct faculty member at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, teaching courses in criminology and criminal justice. A commitment to helping others led to positions with SAFE (Stop Abuse for Everyone), Clarion County Children and Youth Services, Clarion Psychiatric Center, and the Clarion County Counseling Center, where she supervised child and adolescent outpatient services.
From 1997 to 2005, Mrs. Arner established and operated a wraparound program through Personal Touch in Clarion, providing therapeutic services and behavioral support to dozens of children and families throughout the region.
In 2000, Deb began a career in public education as a school psychologist with Cranberry Area School District before joining Brookville Area School District in 2003. During eight years at Brookville, she served as a K-2 School Psychologist, Special Education Department Head, and Local Education Agency (LEA) representative.
Mrs. Arner joined Forest Area School District as School Psychologist and Special Education Coordinator before transitioning to the role of Principal in February 2013. Over the past thirteen years as principal, Mrs. Arner has provided steady leadership, unwavering support for students and staff, and a commitment to creating a positive learning environment for all. Throughout a distinguished career, she has remained focused on serving others and advocating for the success and well-being of children.
The Forest Area School District community extends its sincere gratitude for the years of dedicated service and leadership. Thank you, Mrs. Arner!
Click for Letter from Mrs. Arner
