Board of Education meeting - March 4, 2026

The Bethlehem Board of Education held a meeting on March 4, 2026, focusing primarily on the 2026-2027 budget presentations related to athletics, instructional programs, and administrative components. Key procurement-related discussions included the proposed replacement of nine school buses with options for diesel or electric vehicles (EVs), highlighting challenges with EV charging infrastructure and grant funding incentives tied to scrappage of old buses. The board reviewed budget increases driven by contractual salary adjustments, special education out-of-district placement costs, and program enhancements such as additional reading specialists and technology teachers. The meeting also covered potential budget gaps, tax levy increase options including a supermajority override, and the use of reserves and fund balance to manage the structural deficit. The board was asked to provide guidance on the bus replacement proposition ahead of the April 1 deadline for budget language publication. No final votes were taken, but several action items and options were outlined for further consideration in upcoming meetings.