Photo by Harper Cipro
Welcome to the Bellefonte Area School District!
Dear BASD Community,
It is with great pride and excitement that I welcome you to the Bellefonte Area School District. As Superintendent, I am honored to serve this vibrant and supportive community, united by our shared commitment to educational excellence. Our district’s mission is clear and compelling: To Inspire and Prepare Today’s Learners To Embrace Tomorrow’s Challenges. This mission drives every decision we make and every opportunity we create for our students.
At BASD, we believe collaboration is the cornerstone of success. Working together with families, educators, and community members, we strive to ensure our students reach their highest potential. By fostering partnerships, we create a learning environment where students are challenged academically, supported emotionally, and inspired to grow as future leaders.
We hold ourselves to high expectations for student achievement while nurturing and protecting a caring culture. We want every child to be valued, supported, and encouraged to thrive. We know that when students feel connected and safe, they are more likely to achieve their goals and pursue their dreams.
Fiscal responsibility is a key priority as we look to the future. We are committed to using our resources wisely to ensure sustainable growth and innovative programming. By balancing tradition with forward-thinking practices, we are preparing our students not just for the challenges of tomorrow, but for opportunities that are yet to emerge.
Thank you for your trust and partnership as we work together to make BASD a district where excellence is the standard and every learner is prepared to succeed. I invite you to explore our website, engage with our schools, and join us in shaping a bright future for all.
Sincerely,
Dr. Roy A. Rakszawski
(814) 355-4814, Extension 3005
Superintendent’s Contract (includes Objective Performance Standards Goals for 2024-2025)
Objective Performance Standard Goals for 2025-2026:
Administrative Regulations - By June 30, 2026, the Superintendent will complete a comprehensive review and update of all Administrative Regulations in the District Policy Manual. The review process will ensure that all regulations are current, legally compliant with PA School Code and aligned with the District’s operational procedures.
School Closing/Opening - By June 30, 2026, the Superintendent will successfully oversee and execute all logistical, operational, and communications aspects of the opening of the new elementary school and closing of Benner and Bellefonte Elementary Schools. Evidence of success will include timely decisions on staffing, student rosters, transportation, furniture placement, moving of resources, celebrations, and communications.
Data Culture - In alignment with the 2025-2026 District Goals, the Superintendent will promote the use of data-driven practices, empower all educators to collect, analyze, and apply multiple data sources to differentiate instruction, monitor student progress, and ensure a responsive learning environment for every student. This includes expanding the use of common assessments, MTSS processes, and data warehouse tools.
Bullying - Provide a safe school environment to support learning and mental health by implementing recommendations stemming from the comprehensive Bullying report and recommendations presented in February, 2025.
Dr. Roy Rakszawski has successfully met the Success Indicators and Performance Objectives for the 2024-2025 school year.