Bethlehem Area Vo-Tech Executive Director Adam Lazarchak presented his 2023-24 budget and the potential “necessary but expensive” plans for future expansion at the BASD’s March 6 meeting. Adding a veterinary technician/assistant program, supply chain manufacturing management program, social media marketing, and medical office personnel program, are all being considered for Phase 1. He said the school is looking at “high priority occupations that are economically viable and can be self-sustaining after high school.”

BASD is also just one of the schools contributing to the Vo-Tech budget and that amount is based on the capital expenses and student enrollment from BASD. The contribution for BASD increased 1.05 percent for the 2023-24 school year.

Other discussion items included the revised student conduct code, now known as the BASD “Framework for Citizenship,” presented by Tracy Turner. The framework consists of four levels, using state codes that align with the school district. Focus groups addressed conversations with students regarding dress code, cell phones and implementation and enforcement.

BASD already uses Leader in Me, Restorative Practices, Zones of Regulation, and has incorporated these concepts into the new framework.

The facilities committee reported that the 2023 summer construction projects are running on schedule. Moving services for Miller Heights, James Buchanan and Hanover ES will be scheduled once approved at the March 20 regular board meeting. Classrooms will be emptied and moved to facilitate the summer construction projects. Building locks and security hardware have been replaced in various elementary schools and landscaping services have been secured.