The mood was somber as the May 22 Bethlehem Area School District regular meeting was called to order; recognitions of administrators were bittersweet. The board recognized and honored the retirements of Superintendent Dr. Joseph Roy and Chief Human Resources Officer Russell Giordano. Both played a vital and committed role in the operations of BASD.

Dr. Roy has been the BASD Superintendent and leader for 13 years and served in education for 37 years. He has been the driving force in the district for many years. He is a devoted advocate for children, with a strong commitment to parents and the community.

Giordano had also served as an executive cabinet member. He has served the district as CHRO and Compliance Officer since 2011. Giordano’s career as a human resource professional, combined with his experience as a teacher proved to be the perfect recipe for meeting the ever more complex human resource needs of the district.

Also recognized was Communications Coordinator Barbara Clymer, who was recently awarded the Communicator of the Year Award by the Pennsylvania School Public Relations Association. The award recognizes school communications professionals who have demonstrated exemplary leadership and commitment to enhanced communication and relationship-building between public schools and the stakeholders they serve. Representatives from PenSPRA were present to bestow the award.

Board President Michael Faccinetto provided anecdotal tales of his personal experiences working with each of the retirees. The most moving moment was when Giordano thanked his staff and the board. “I love my job and I love coming to work each day. I have the best staff anywhere.” Fascinetto said each retiree will be missed.

Also recognized were the high school representatives who report to the board each month, Freedom HS Representative Jannelly Florian and Liberty HS Representative Jessica Esch. Both ladies will be graduating from their respective schools this week.

The board approved all administrative recommendations. Each of the committees gave their reports, and a last look was taken at the proposed budget prior to the June regular board meeting vote.