The BASD directors met for their monthly committee meetings on Nov. 7 and 14.

Chief Technology Officer Marie Bachman reviewed the current technology plan and presented the primary goals for this year. Continuity of instruction, keeping the data center and network hardware current, using best practices for passwords and keeping cyber security tasks up to date are just some of the goals for this year. Bachman summed it all up by saying, “we just want it to work.”

Next, Chief Facilities and Operations Officer Mark Stein gave an energy update. He was pleased to report that the BASD had nine of its 10 schools rated Energy Star Schools in Pennsylvania. The Energy Star Score is for K-12 schools and is applied to the buildings used by students. The rating is based on a 100-point scale. Buildings that are highly energy efficient receive the energy star label. The purpose is to encourage the use of energy efficient products that are both good for the environment and save consumers money. Stein said BASD uses occupancy sensors and solar energy to lessen consumption. Stein also made the community aware that the initial meeting for the future facilities planning for TJ and William Penn elementary schools will take place Nov. 29, 6 p.m. at Northeast MS. This is the first step of a long process.

The Curriculum Committee reviewed the HS program of studies 2023-24 revisions, as well as the assessment and grading update. The student-centered grading statement pilot classes are in 6th and 9th grade history and social science studies. The grading is multi-component, using students’ achievement, engagement, responsibility and a comment area.

The Finance Committee reviewed several appointments to various commissions and authorities associated with the school district that they will vote on at the next regular board meeting.

The Human Resource Committee accepted the resignation of Craig Neiman, effective Nov. 1, from his seat as a board member. The committee had one applicant, Michael Recchiuti, for the vacant seat. Recchiuti was interviewed at the meeting by board Vice President Shannon Patrick. Recchiuti is a general practice attorney, in Bethlehem, whose practice has an emphasis on estate planning and elderly guardianship. Recchiuti was accepted by the HR committee and will be officially voted on by the whole board at the Nov. 21 regular school board meeting.