Florence

Tara Walter relocated to Florence with her husband and three children in 2006. Sensing a call to civic duty, she decided to run for Town Council. She was appointed in June 2012, and selected by councilmembers to serve as vice mayor in 2014. In 2016, she was elected to a four-year term as mayor. And in 2020, she was re-elected to serve a second term. She is proud to be part of this monumental time in Town history and the many opportunities for growth and prosperity. Mayor Walter’s priorities include keeping neighborhoods safe with prompt emergency response times, focusing on future growth while preserving the past, unifying the town, and implementing strategic planning with fiscal responsibility. She is actively involved in community projects ranging from family-oriented events to providing numerous opportunities for children.

Tara Walter is also an assistant principal with the Florence Unified School District. As an elementary educator, she served as a team leader, reading coach, mentor teacher, gifted site coordinator, and science club advisor. She created the Science Club to heighten student interest in science and enable participation in hands-on experiences that emphasize teamwork and cooperation. Club membership prepared students to successfully compete in Pinal County Science Olympiads at Central Arizona College. Mrs. Walter also assisted in the creation of the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) Charter for Anthem K–8 and served as NJHS advisor for four years.

Tara Walter earned bachelor degrees in elementary education and English (literature/writing) from the State University of New York and graduated on the Dean’s List. She also holds two master’s degrees in education (i.e., principal K–12 and elementary education) from Northern Arizona University, and graduated with high honors in educational leadership.