With the school year closing, the June 25 school board meeting meant the Bethlehem Board of School Directors had the wearisome task of reviewing 20 pages of proposed retirements, resignations, reassignments, and nominations. Before taking time to place votes on the entire list, and to point out any objections, Superintendent Dr. Joseph Roy mentioned the most notable of the changes in staffing.

Marvine Elementary Principal Dr. Karen Gomez, who served the district for 25 years, has retired from her position. Dr. Gomez began in 1993 in the English as a second language instruction, and quickly worked her way up the ranks to her position as Principal at Marvine. Roy spoke poignantly about Gomez’s service before inviting her up to receive an award for her service. Gomez said working in the BASD was, “Twenty-five very challenging and very rewarding” years of her life.

After congratulations were given, Roy announced that William Penn ES Principal Eric Fontanez has been selected to replace Gomez as Marvine principal. And that Broughal Assistant Principal Joseph Anthes was promoted to principal of William Penn ES. The list was rounded off with a number of new teachers and guidance counselors being nominated for positions, a testament to Roy’s devoted push this year to add qualified staff. He mentioned that BASD has seen an incredible increase in the number of applications for every open position, and he is proud that the district has become an attractive employer, capable of drawing the most qualified professionals to serve district students.