The Bethlehem Area School District announced Renato M. Lajara as its next superintendent of schools on May 19, pending board approval, the district announced.
Lajara currently serves as assistant superintendent for Network 8 in the School District of Philadelphia, where he oversees 15 schools and more than 8,000 students. He brings more than two decades of experience in public education to the position.
Michael E. Faccinetto, president of the Bethlehem Area School Board, described Lajara as “a visionary, student-centered leader with a deep commitment to equity and excellence.”
“Throughout the search process, it was clear that his experience transforming school communities, supporting educators, and delivering results for students sets him apart,” Faccinetto said.
In his current role, Lajara has led strategic initiatives focused on academic achievement, equity and organizational coherence while collaborating with district leadership to implement a comprehensive five-year strategic plan.
A product of the Philadelphia public school system and originally from the Dominican Republic, Lajara’s experience as an English language learner has shaped his approach to education. His career has included leading school turnaround efforts, implementing standards-based instructional systems and expanding access to inclusive programming.
“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,” Lajara said. “A school district thrives when it operates as a true partnership. Together, we will build upon Bethlehem’s solid foundation.”
MORE BY
ADVANCE LOCAL EXPRESS DESK
Mayfair Festival of the Arts to proceed rain or shine at Cedar Crest CollegeMay. 21, 2026, 7:00 a.m.
Lajara holds a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from Gwynedd Mercy University, a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from the same institution and a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. He also holds a Pennsylvania Superintendent Letter of Eligibility and Principal Certification.
He will succeed Jack P. Silva, who will retire on June 30. The district will share additional transition details in the coming weeks.
The Bethlehem Area School District is the sixth largest school district in Pennsylvania, serving over 12,240 students in 22 schools across five municipalities: City of Bethlehem, Bethlehem Township, Hanover Township, Freemansburg and Fountain Hill.
Read the original article on lehighvalleylive.com. Add lehighvalleylive.com as a Preferred Source by clicking here.