Edwards sets two school records, leads Bethel Park to fourth at WPIAL championships
Jackson Edwards led Bethel Park at the WPIAL Championships at the University of Pittsburgh’s Trees Hall, winning the 100 butterfly and 100 backstroke while setting school records in both events to help the boys team finish fourth overall. The Black Hawks also earned multiple top finishes and personal-best times across several relays and individual events, with the girls team placing in the Top 20.
February Rotary Student of the Month: Reese Fontanesi
Bethel Park High School senior Reese Fontanesi has been named Rotary Student of the Month for February 2026 in recognition of her academic excellence, leadership and service, highlighted by a 4.0 weighted GPA, involvement in theater productions and mentorship through BP Connect and student ambassador programs. A longtime Girl Scout and animal lover who volunteers locally, Fontanesi said her experiences in the arts, travel and service have helped shape her confidence and connection to the school community.
BPHS DECA Excels at 2026 State Conference
Bethel Park High School had a strong showing at the 2026 Pennsylvania DECA State Conference in Hershey, with over 80 students competing and 28 qualifying for the DECA International Career Development Conference in Atlanta this April. Two students earned top honors for highest test or role-play scores, Mrs. Maria Christenson was recognized for 15 years of service as a DECA advisor, and Carly Conroy was sworn in as the new PA DECA District III Representative. The chapter also celebrated multiple first- through fifth-place finishes across competitions and earned Thrive Level recognition, securing additional opportunities at the ICDC.
Bethel Park School District Names Dr. Matthew J. Patterson as its new Superintendent
The Bethel Park School District Board of School Directors has appointed Dr. Matthew J. Patterson as the district’s 13th full-time superintendent, bringing nearly 30 years of experience in instructional leadership and district administration. He will succeed Dr. James Walsh upon his retirement in June, with an official start date to be announced as he begins transitioning into the Bethel Park community.
Bethel Park School District and Community Foundation partner for America 250 Essay Contest
As the nation nears the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, Bethel Park School District and the Bethel Park Community Foundation are sponsoring a K-12 essay contest that invites students to reflect on what makes America special. The contest features grade-level prompts and word limits, cash prizes up to $500, a May 1, 2026, deadline, and recognition at Bethel Park High School’s Awards Night.