Student representatives update board; Bethlehem Area SD honors National Merit program students

Student representatives from Liberty and Freedom high schools reported to the Bethlehem Area School District board on Oct. 20 about fall activities, college-planning events and recent student recognition.

Farida Ishmael, Liberty student representative, told the board that October activities included AP exam registration procedures, a National Honor Society induction set for Oct. 27, a financial aid night covering FAFSA and CSS Profile applications, senior events (senior sunrise and senior breakfast) and upcoming theater and powder puff events. She also noted spirit week activities leading into the annual Liberty vs. Freedom football game and fundraising tied to the faculty flag football game.

Eliza Moore, Freedom student representative, reported that Freedom’s NHS inducted 108 new members on Oct. 14 with Bethlehem Mayor Reynolds delivering the keynote, and that the school hosted a blood drive with Miller-Keystone Blood Center and a college-and-career night. Moore said Freedom’s debate and scholastic scrimmage teams began competition and highlighted athletics and band performances.

The board held a special recognition during the meeting for National Merit Scholarship program students. Doctor Leeson and district staff identified Ethan Fredericks of Freedom High School as the district’s National Merit semifinalist and named Gwen Rodriguez, Sean Blackton and Cody Smith (all from Freedom High School) as commended students. Two of the commended students, Sean Blackton and Cody Smith, were not present at the meeting and the board noted their absence.

No formal board action was required for the student reports or recognitions; these were informational and ceremonial items in the meeting agenda.