Bethlehem School District reveals energy updates and Fountain Hill project timeline

The Bethlehem Area School District (BASD) Facilities and Curriculum Committee convened on April 7, 2025, to discuss significant updates on school projects and transportation initiatives that will enhance the educational experience for students and families.

A key highlight from the meeting was the progress on the Fountain Hill Elementary School project. The committee confirmed that preparations are underway for a pre-construction meeting scheduled for April 17, with the aim of ensuring a smooth transition as the school prepares to move to a temporary facility on Valley Center Parkway by June 1. The last day of in-person classes at the current Fountain Hill location is set for June 9, ahead of the regular schedule. A community event is planned for April 10 or 12, allowing former students and neighbors to tour the school before its demolition, fostering community engagement and nostalgia.

In addition to the construction updates, the committee discussed the implementation of a new transportation app called Stopfinder, which has been rolled out to elementary school families. This app allows parents to track their child's bus in real-time, providing notifications when the bus is approaching their stop. The app aims to improve communication and reduce wait times for families, enhancing the overall transportation experience. The initial rollout has seen positive engagement, with over 660 families signing up for the service.

The meeting also touched on the renewal of the district's agreement with Transpar for transportation management services, which is set to continue for another year. This decision reflects the district's commitment to maintaining reliable transportation for students.

As the committee moves forward, these developments signal a proactive approach to improving facilities and services within the Bethlehem Area School District, ultimately benefiting students and their families. The next committee meeting is scheduled for April 28, where further agenda items will be discussed.