BETHLEHEM, Pa. — An assistant superintendent in Philadelphia schools has been chosen to head Bethlehem Area School District.
Renato M. Lajara, as assistant superintendent for Network 8 in Philadelphia School District oversees 15 schools and more than 8,000 students, will take over for Superintendent Jack P. Silva, who will retire June 30.
Lajara's appointment will need approval of Bethlehem Area School Board, which next meets to adopt the district budget at 6 p.m. June 1.BASD news release
Lajara's appointment will need approval of Bethlehem Area School Board, which next meets to adopt the district budget at 6 p.m. June 1.
“Dr. Lajara is a visionary, student-centered leader with a deep commitment to equity and excellence,” board President Michael E. Faccinetto said in a news release.
“Throughout the search process, it was clear that his experience transforming school communities, supporting educators and delivering results for students sets him apart.
"We are confident that under his leadership, the Bethlehem Area School District will continue to grow and thrive.”
Lajara received a master's degree and doctorate degree in educational leadership at Gwynedd Mercy University in Lower Gwynedd Township, Montgomery County.
He also holds a Pennsylvania Superintendent Letter of Eligibility and Principal Certification.
‘An accomplished leader’
A BASD released said Lajara "brings more than two decades of experience in public education, with a proven record of driving change and improving outcomes for students in diverse and complex school systems.
"In this role, he has led strategic initiatives focused on academic achievement, equity, and organizational coherence, while collaborating closely with district leadership to implement a comprehensive five-year strategic plan."
"Throughout his career, Dr. Lajara has demonstrated success in transforming school culture, improving instructional practices, and closing opportunity gaps."BASD release
Originally from the Dominican Republic, Lajara is a product of the Philadelphia public school system.
The BASD release said his "personal journey as an English language learner informs his deep commitment to ensuring all students, regardless of background, have access to a high-quality education."
"Dr. Lajara is an accomplished educational leader and dedicated student advocate known for his ethical, equitable and student-centered approach to leadership," the release said.
"Throughout his career, Dr. Lajara has demonstrated success in transforming school culture, improving instructional practices, and closing opportunity gaps."
‘A true partnership’
As a principal and district leader, Lajara "has led school turnaround efforts, implemented standards-based instructional systems, expanded access to inclusive programming," it said.
"His leadership has consistently resulted in stronger academic outcomes and more supportive, high-performing school environments for students and staff."
Together, we will build upon Bethlehem’s solid foundation. I am excited to get started and to be a part of the Bethlehem community."Bethlehem Area Schools Superintendent appointee Renato M. Lajara, in a statement
In a statement, Lajara said, "It is an incredible privilege to have been chosen to lead the Bethlehem Area School District, a community renowned for its cultural vibrancy, rich educational traditions, and deep-rooted pride.
"A school district thrives when it operates as a true partnership. Together, we will build upon Bethlehem’s solid foundation. I am excited to get started and to be a part of the Bethlehem community.
"I want to extend my sincere gratitude to the Board of Directors for this opportunity.”
Silva has been superintendent since April 2023 and previously was the district's assistant superintendent and chief academic officer.
Silva, a 1982 graduate of Liberty High School, started working for the district in 2010.
