Twenty-one senior students were recognized on May 4 with the prestigious Bridges Scholarships. The awards are based on academic and extracurricular accomplishments. The awards can be used to pursue post-secondary education or to purchase tools for a student to continue their path of study. The foundation has awarded over $800,000 since its inauguration by Walter Dealtrey in 1999.

In conjunction with Miller Keystone Blood Center, BAVTS held three blood drives this school year, collecting a vital resource for those in need in our community. On Dec. 20, Mrs. Bloszinsky’s Health Careers class held the first drive, collecting 29 pints of blood. On Feb. 21, Mrs. Stilgenbauer’s Health Careers class coordinated the second blood drive and collected 31 pints of blood. On April 19, Mrs. McGraw’s Health Careers class spearheaded the third blood drive collecting 18 pints of blood. Thanks to all BAVTS who contributed to or assisted with this vital community outreach!

Mrs. Stilgenbauer’s Health Careers class presented on various topics of diseases such as breast cancer, autism, schizophrenia and social anxiety disorder. Many of the topics related to mental health as May is Mental Health Awareness month since 1949. Students were judged on signs, symptoms, causes, prevention and treatments used past and present. Judges participating in the presentations included Anne Ferencin; Susan McCaughin; and Josefa Husovsky, BAVTS retired staff; Karlee Hantz, ER nurse from Lehigh Valley Hospital Network; and Ann Marie Szoke, DNP, CRNP Trauma and Acute Care Surgery, St. Luke’s University Health Network.

On May 9, about 45 students and their employers that participate in the cooperative education program were recognized at the school. The guest speaker for the day was Kristen Fallon, who is vice president of member services for Associated Builders and Contractors. Students who assisted as emcee’s were Gabrielle Altieri, Amber Hunsicker and Julia Kramer.

Cooperative education students collectively worked 54,530 hours contributing approximately $540,530 to the local economy. Thank you to all the companies and students for another successful year.

Newly elected officers and ambassadors for SkillsUSA for the 2018-2019 school year are: Angelina Rex, NO-11, president; Amy Swierczek, NO-11,vice president; Brianna Viera, NO-11, treasurer; Lauryn Stauffer, NO-11, secretary. The ambassadors from Liberty are Brienna Aszli, 11, and Isiah Quinones, 10. From Northampton, Samantha Odenwelder, 11, and Sabrina Wetzel, 10.

May 19 is the annual Fashion Show at 7 p.m. and it is free to the public.

The Car Show will be held Sept. 30.