The new members of the Bethlehem Area School District school board were welcomed and sworn in as they participated in their first official meeting as members Dec. 2.

Michael Facinetto, who was also sworn in for a new term and re-elected president, remarked that it was likely to be the fastest meeting they would ever participate in.

All items on the agenda were approved to be moved to Dec. 9 to be voted on.

Once routine business was finished the board conducted interviews for the remaining vacant Region 2 seat. The seat opened when Director Shannon Patrick was elected to two seats, Region 2 and an at-large seat.

Four applicants were interviewed for the two-year term after a fifth candidate dropped out. The board asked each applicant the same series of questions on topics ranging from knowledge of the district's school programs, what they feel is the district's biggest challenge and more.

The applicants included Russell D'Entrone, Jason Fetterman, Craig Neiman and Randolph Toman.

While only Toman and D'Entrone have attended past board meetings, Fetterman and Neiman have children in district schools. All of the applicants bring a variety of skills and experience to the table, such as working with a team, volunteer experience or possessing a financial background.

Feterman as an electrical engineer brings his experience working on a team to the position and his personal experience with the district's schools. He is thrilled with the growth his son has made while attending a district school.

Neiman is also happy with the education his daughters are receiving at Asa Packer. While he has not attended a board meeting, he has followed district affairs in the media. He brings experience working with budgets, and he was treasurer for Central Moravian Church. He also has experience working the different stakeholders to achieve a balanced budget. At Central Moravian he held information sessions to keep everyone informed as to what was happening with the budget.

When asked what the districts greatest challenge is the majority answered funding and the budget.

"[It]all comes down to money.[It's] hard to open a newspaper and not see someone cutting money," said Fetterman.

He went on to say that he wants to see where the money comes from and how it trickles down into the district's schools to make sure that it is spent in the best way.

Toman said he feels the school system can work mechanically education-wise very well, but without money it would collapse and fail.

The board was scheduled to make its choice Dec. 9.