— Jeff Ward, Lehigh Valley News Briefs
Liberty High School Principal Dr. Harrison Bailey III is leaving to become superintendent of the Wilson Area School District.
The Bethlehem Area School District said Wednesday morning that Rick Amato, supervisor of science, technology, engineering and mathematics for the district, will serve as interim principal.
“We are grateful for Dr. Bailey’s leadership and dedication at Liberty High School, and
while we are sad to see him go, we are confident that Mr. Amato will provide strong
interim leadership during this transition,” Dr. Jack P. Silva, Superintendent of the
Bethlehem Area School District, said in the BASD statement said.
Amato has been Principal of Governor Wolf Elementary School, Principal of Broughal Middle School, and Assistant Principal at Wilson High School. He began his career in the Bethlehem Area School District teaching at East Hills Middle School and Nitschmann Middle School, the BASD said.
Here is the statement from the Bethlehem Area School District:
Liberty High School Announces Interim Principal Appointment
Bethlehem, PA — Dr. Harrison Bailey III, Principal of Liberty High School, will be
leaving the Bethlehem Area School District on February 14, 2025, to take on the role of
Superintendent for the Wilson Area School District. The District is grateful for Dr.
Bailey’s leadership and dedication over the years and wishes him the best in his new
position.
Mr. Rick Amato, current Supervisor of Science, Technology, Engineering, and
Mathematics for the District, will step in as Interim Principal of Liberty High School
until a permanent replacement is on board.
Mr. Amato brings a wealth of experience in education having served in various
leadership roles within the District. Prior to his current position, he was the Principal of
Governor Wolf Elementary School, Principal of Broughal Middle School, and Assistant
Principal at Wilson High School. He began his career in the Bethlehem Area School
District teaching at East Hills Middle School and Nitschmann Middle School.
“We are grateful for Dr. Bailey’s leadership and dedication at Liberty High School, and
while we are sad to see him go, we are confident that Mr. Amato will provide strong
interim leadership during this transition,” said Dr. Jack P. Silva Superintendent of the
Bethlehem Area School District. “His extensive experience with our District and his deep
commitment to student success will ensure continuity for Liberty High School students
and staff.”
Mr. Amato holds a Bachelor of Science degree from East Stroudsburg University and a
Master of Education from Wilkes University. His experience and commitment to the
Bethlehem Area School District will ensure a smooth transition at Liberty High School.
The Bethlehem Area School District has started the search for a permanent principal for
Liberty High School, with an appointment expected in the coming months.
About the Bethlehem Area School District
The Bethlehem Area School District is the 6th largest school district in Pennsylvania serving
nearly 14,000 culturally and economically diverse students in 22 community-based schools. The
district serves five municipalities: City of Bethlehem, Bethlehem Township, Hanover Township,
Freemansburg, and Fountain Hill. The district enjoys numerous community partnerships with
universities, businesses, and arts providers that extend the schools’ rich curricular and cocurricul
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