Bethlehem Area School District directors began the Dec. 1 reorganization meeting with the swearing in of re-elected officers Dr. Silagh White, Michael Fascinetto and Shannon Patrick. The oath of office was administered by Northampton County Judge Jennifer Sletvold. Fascinetto was re-elected president and Patrick was re-elected vice president.

The Facilities Committee presented building plans for the renovation of Vo-Tech Southside property on Columbia Street and the main campus on Chester Avenue to grow course opportunities and permit the enrollment of 300 additional students.

The renovations will cost an estimated $13.8 million to $15 million.

The cost will be shared among partnering districts, including Saucon Valley and Northampton. BAVTS also has $4 million in reserves available for the project if needed.

The renovations on the main buildings at both location have an August 2026 estimated completion date.

Welding, sports medicine, culinary arts, health careers, electronics technology and aviation technology will be added to the curriculum, and space will be added for veterinary technicians, health careers, a conference room, future co-op, medical office administration, mental/behavioral health and computer networking programs.

Chief Financial Officer Harry Aristakesian said the long-awaited state budget resolution has deposited $2.5 million more into district coffers than expected, helping make up for the lost interest. Fascinetto said, “[This is] good news after a long-delayed budget. It’s always good to get more than we budgeted for.”

Chief Technology Officer Marie Bachman reviewed the annual technology plan, systems that are necessary and used daily by students, teachers and administrators, such as Microsoft and Google, Synergy, Time Clock Plus and Trans Finder. Much discussion focused on cybersecurity and privacy protections.

Chief Human Resource Officer Dr. John Burris and his staff continue working on several new policies, with a focus on health issues, conduct and discipline, educator misconduct, and student/teacher boundaries.

The next meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. Dec. 15 at East Hills MS.