There were no changes at the Dec. 5 school board reorganization meeting, as the same slate of officers were reappointed for another term.

President Michael Fascinetto and Vice President Shannon Patrick were unanimously re-elected to their leadership positions. The board also recommended the reappointment of board members Dr. Dean Donaher and Emily Schenkel to the Bethlehem Area Vocational-technical school as representatives for the BASD. This is a three-year term ending in December 2025.

As an informational item, the board heard the recommendation of Child Care Supervisor Angela Kukitz regarding the need for continued participation in the STARS program. BASD has its own childcare program that is provided by the school district. It provides morning and afternoon childcare within the schools.

BASD childcare satisfies the requirements set by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, just like any other licensed childcare facility. STARS has additional requirements that BASD already provides or does not have a need for. For this reason, Kukitz recommends that the district withdraw from the STARS program as it does not meet the needs of BASD.

The STARS program appears to be better suited for full day 12-hour childcare, and that is not connected to a school system. BASD already has many of the resources and goals in place to prepare children to transition into school or provide educational support for homework, and specific emotional support, and after school needs.

The next regular board meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. Dec. 19 at East Hills MS.