As both a resident and a former member of the Bethel-Tate Schools Board of Education, Charles Napier, the district's new Director of Operations, understands the importance of managing district funds wisely and the value of caring for the community's investment in our schools. With these priorities in mind, he and his team are dedicated to overseeing the maintenance and upkeep of all district facilities, ensuring that our buildings are safe, welcoming, and attractive.
A Busy and Productive Summer
Mr. Napier's first summer in his new role was filled with many projects, including sealcoating, installing new signage, and creating a memorial wall.
Extending the Life of Parking Surfaces
One big project this summer focused on sealcoating and restriping the parking lots at both Bethel-Tate Middle and High Schools. Sealcoating provides asphalt with a protective barrier against water damage, thus extending its lifespan and preserving our community's investment.
New Digital Marquee
In late June, a new digital marquee was installed at Bethel-Tate Middle School, thanks to a generous contribution from the Bethel American Legion. This new marquee replaces the old sign that had changeable plastic letters. With the digital marquee, the district can easily display a wide range of content, including important meeting dates, special events, sporting events, and music performances from across the district.
Celebrating Those Who Serve
A project initiated by the Bethel-Tate High School National Honor Society, with assistance from the Bethel American Legion, The Veterans Wall of Honor, is now complete and proudly displayed in the BTHS Commons area. Local Veterans were invited to submit their names and photos, which now scroll on a large monitor featured in the Wall of Honor.
This project was an initiative of the BTHS National Honor Society. The NHS collaborated with the Bethel American Legion, Lions Club, and VFW on the project, and over the summer, the district’s maintenance team finalized it.
Thank you to all who contributed and participated in making the Wall of Honor a reality. Veterans are still invited to provide their name and a photograph for inclusion in the Veterans Wall of Honor by filling out the form at the following link - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeYFHod7Jw1e4dTtRJQL40u8xnxw3TdzO4lYhFB2fbtBierMA/viewform Military pictures can be emailed to nhs@betheltate.org
School Safety Improvements
Responding to a request from the high school’s Student Safety Council, the district added two speed bumps to the high school parking lot to slow down motorists and enhance safety. Additionally, at the recommendation of the Bethel Police Department, the district maintenance department trimmed or removed bushes and shrubs near school windows to improve visibility and safety.
Elsewhere in the district, the business office completed a significant project this summer with the installation of a new chiller at Ebon Hill Intermediate School.
The chiller replaces an aged-out piece of equipment that’s been on the replacement list for a few years but was on hold due to limited funds.
BTHS Library Refresh and Other Improvements
The Bethel-Tate High School library received a refresh, including the removal of a large center console. In its place, new furniture will provide a more functional space for learning and collaboration. To save costs, our maintenance staff handled the console removal.
Transportation: Vans and Bus Routes
To comply with new state regulations, the district purchased two new nine-passenger vans to replace older models. These new vans are fuel-efficient, safe, and designed for transporting special needs children and smaller athletic groups.