The Bethlehem Area School is celebrating the donation of $30,000 by Dunn and Bradstreet Credibility to kick off the new curriculum, Project Lead the Way.

On Jan. 31, BASD officials, students, teachers and Congressman Charlie Dent gathered at Liberty HS for a presentation of the check to the district. The money is being used to help implement the new curriculum called Project Lead the Way in the districts two high schools next school year. The check was presented to high school principals Harrison Bailey and Michael La Porta.

Project Lead the Way curriculum focuses on science, technology, engineering and mathematics programs providing an introduction to engineering and medical fields for students thinking of pursuing these fields as college majors. The program allows students to decide if these fields are right for them prior to entering college, as well as preparing them to continue their study of these fields in college.

"As we move ahead with Project Lead the Way, we were excited that Dunn and Bradstreet Credibility came into the picture," said BASD Superintendent Dr. Joseph Roy. "We are happy to be surprised with the donation."

Dunn and Bradstreet is looking to establish a relationship with the district and hopes to work with BASD on other programs down the road.

"Our company is thrilled to do this because we are huge believers in business and community working together to advance our kids," said Don Berkman, of Dunn and Bradstreet. "Our company has put a huge emphasis on trying to help the next generation."

Dent is a supporter of Project Lead the Way with his son experiencing the curriculum at Parkland HS.

"I think it is a terrific program and Bethlehem Area School District has been out front in a lot of things in educationally over the years," Dent said. "They have done a lot of things well here and this is a great initiative. I think this is going to really help separate Bethlehem Area School District from other districts in the Commonwealth and the country."

After the ceremony, Robotics Club students along with Project Lead the Way teacher Mark Hoffman showed off projects that incorporate subjects that will be taught in the curriculum. Dent in particular made sure to check out each project station.