I think the confusion comes from the fact that a PC might teach "push down" with the palm behind the ball in relationship to the catcher but in reality its impossible to maintain those mechanics throughout the full swing. Try it for yourself. Pitching hand to your side, thumb on top of ball...
I agree that her release and follow through is much better at :05 than at :35 (fist w/ palm pointed down?) Has your dd tried to generate more speed by having her throwing arm go farther back past 9 o'clock at the start of her swing? If you look at video of elite pitchers (finch, cat, thorson...