The regular monthly meeting of BASD was held Feb. 27.at East Hills MS.

The board unanimously approved the following actions that had been discussed in committee meetings; That the Board of School Directors authorizes the allocation of the energy tax credit pursuant to IRS Section 179D for the design and construction of energy efficient buildings to D’Huy Engineering, Inc. for their role in the design of the HVAC and lighting renovations at Calypso, Freemansburg, and Governor Wolf ES.

That the Board of School Directors approves the private transportation contract for carrier service during the 2022-23 school year as listed below. That the Board of School Directors authorizes the administration to solicit bids for up to nine 10-passenger student transportation vans at a cost not to exceed $510,000 subject to availability of funds in final 2023-24 budget. That the board of School Directors authorizes the administration to purchase two electric school buses from Rohrer Bus of Duncannon, also the purchase of a dump truck, plow and salt spreader.

Board President Michael Fascinetto announced an internal investigation begun in November 2022, regarding an undisclosed personnel matter, had been completed. The school district hired former Northampton County judge Emil Giordano to investigate the matter. Findings would be discussed in closed session.

Superintendent Dr. Joseph Roy congratulated BASD director Winston Alozie, who was awarded the prestigious Laros award. The Founders Award recognizes the founders, Helen and R.K. Laros as faithful & continuous supporters of their community and is only awarded when the board sees an example of the founders’ commitment in Bethlehem. The Helen & R.K. Laros Foundation provides grant support with a focus on enduring capital projects with significant community impact in the Bethlehem area. The trustees were glad to recognize Winston Alozie, Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Club of Bethlehem, who has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to the Bethlehem community and especially children.

Roy also Freedom HS has opened a wellness center – creating an area focused on supporting the mental health of students and their families. Sen. Lisa Boscola helped get grant funding for this project. The school’s outdated planetarium has been transformed into a wellness center.

Committees will meet March 6 and 13 at the Education Center – 6 p.m.