At the Feb. 20 Catasauqua Area School District Board of Education meeting, board members interviewed an applicant for the empty seat on the school board. Robert Nappa, of Catasauqua, answered some questions from the board and Superintendent of Schools Dr. Christina Lutz-Doemling about his qualifications and interest in the role.

When asked why he was interested in serving on the board, Nappa reported he has been getting more involved in the community. He noted he recently joined the borough sewer authority as well. Additionally, Nappa noted he has been a teacher for nearly 10 years, having worked in Allentown, at Innovative Arts Academy Charter School and in East Asia.

He believes he has a well-rounded wealth of experience to share with the district.

In discussing his past experience serving the CASD community, he noted that, as a taxpayer in the borough, he has a financial stake in the district. He also noted he has years of experience devoting his time and energy to other people’s children and wants to do the same for the students in the CASD.

Nappa reported his experience in various educational environments speaks to why he should be appointed. He also noted he has a history of making students enjoy his math classes, which speaks to his engagement and creativity in working with students.

He also mentioned a desire to give back to the community.

When asked how the board should handle important issues, particularly with public pressure, Nappa emphasized the importance of listening to the public’s input and working collaboratively. He said issues should be discussed collectively and agreed upon, keeping the betterment of the students at the forefront.

Regarding his experience with budgets, primarily at the governmental level, he noted his work on the sewer authority included discussions about financials and working within a budget.

“I’m a math teacher,” Nappa noted. “I’m good with numbers.”

He emphasized his experience as a math teacher included using real-life experiences with his students. He also said he enjoys solving problems with numbers.

After the question-and-answer segment of the process, Nappa was nominated to fill the empty two-year seat for a term running Feb. 20 through December 2025. He was unanimously approved by the board.

Nappa immediately took the oath of office, issued by Stacy Zellner, district office manager and notary, and took his seat around the table for the rest of the meeting.