The rights of transgender students, synthetic turf fields and the new Nitschmann MS project were issues at hand during the most recent Bethlehem Area School Board meeting.

The board unanimously voted to update its nondiscrimination and harassment policies to cover both transgender students and transgender teachers.

Director Basilio Bonilla, Jr., was strongly encouraged by the unanimous vote.

"I'm honored to be a part of the vote tonight that supported our community and enacted change to support all students in the district," Bonilla, Jr., said.

Synthetic Turf Field

In an 8-1 vote, the board voted to begin soliciting bids for a new synthetic turf field and track at Freedom HS.

The move came as a result of the Nitschmann project bid coming in more than $2 million lower than expected.

Opponents of the idea, including Fountain Hill resident Peter Crownfield, attended the meeting, handing out literature that cited potential dangers in synthetic turf field.

The handouts stated:

Ÿ There is no proof that synthetic fields are safe

Ÿ Crumb rubber contains a variety of compounds that cause long-term health problems

Ÿ It can take years after exposure for health problems to arise

Ÿ The EPA withdrew its assurances of safety and said more studies are needed

The turf installation is estimated between $2.5 and $3 million, while the new track is estimated around $1 million.

Bonilla cast the dissenting vote, citing financial uncertainties.

Nitschmann Project

The board awarded the construction bid to Penn Builders of Quakertown at a cost of $34 million.

The approximately $53 million school is planned to be built behind the current school at Eighth Avenue and West Union Boulevard.

It is expected to open in August 2017.