The Bethlehem Area School District is pleased to announce that Dr. Renato M. Lajara has been selected as Superintendent of Schools, pending board approval. Lajara is an accomplished educational leader and dedicated student advocate known for his ethical, equitable, and student-centered approach to leadership. He 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.
Currently serving as Assistant Superintendent for Network 8 in the School District of Philadelphia, Lajara oversees 15 schools and more than 8,000 students. 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.
A proud product of the Philadelphia public school system and originally from the Dominican Republic, Lajara’s 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…