Mr. Bilotti’s shares his words of wisdom

Faculty Highlight - Mr. Bilotti
Delilah Oquendo
The Freedom Forum
Mr. Christopher Bilotti teaches a variety of math courses from Consumer Math to Honors Algebra 2 at Freedom for 12 years. His favorite math class to teach is Precalculus because it uses all the prerequisite skills from Algebra and Geometry, and it applies the concepts to real world problems.
Mr. Bilotti does not have a preference in a particular grade to teach, but he does find it much easier to teach students who have a strong background of the concept that is being applied in the classroom and the skills obtained in their previous math classes.
“The smartest people in this world not only answer questions but also ask them,” said Mr. Bilotti.
His biggest pet peeve of his job is that the school teaches algebra 2 before geometry. Mr. Bilotti said it is very difficult to fully understand the concepts being taught to them at a freshman or sophomore level.
Being a teacher can be very tough at times because students are very different, and all learn in different ways and varied paces. Math teachers must rely on memorization from previous background math classes rather than making connections with previous knowledge. Without background knowledge, moving into deeper concepts is difficult.
Mr. Bilotti says the most challenging aspect on being a math teacher is that all students have a different background which makes it harder to connect with his students. He strongly believes to be a successful teacher and to overcome these challenges, a teacher must take interest in student lives.
“Students don’t care how much you know until they see how much you care,” said Mr. Bilotti.
The person who has inspired and influenced Mr. Bilotti is Mr. Witko, his eighth grade Earth Science teacher. Mr. Witko was always so energetic and passionate about his subject area and was never afraid to make jokes or find fun ways to motivate his students. Likewise, Mr. Bilotti has always been known for his use of puns and humor in class to help students succeed.
“Everyone leaves a mark on this world in one way or another. Some leave a lasting impression, while others just leave a stain,” said Mr. Bilotti.
Mr. Bilotti’s hero is his father. His father's goal was to always make Mr. Bilotti’s life easier than his own. His dad had moved from Italy to Staten Island, and at three years old, his parents split. As a result, Mr. Bilotti moved to Pennsylvania, where he met his fiance, Kimberly Brill. She is an elementary special education teacher at Delfranco Elementary School in Bangor, and she works with students with multiple and severe disabilities.
On a typical Saturday night, Mr. Bilotti enjoys watching college football and cheering on his favorite team, Penn State, with his fiance and their friends. His go-to meal for football games is any kind of BBQ. Whether it is ribs, chicken, or wings, he loves it all.
Mr. Bilotti may not be as into October and horror as his soon-to-be wife, but his top three favorite scary movies are “Terminator 2,” “Silence of Lambs,” and “The Candy Man.”
Delilah Oquendo
The Freedom Forum
Mr. Christopher Bilotti teaches a variety of math courses from Consumer Math to Honors Algebra 2 at Freedom for 12 years. His favorite math class to teach is Precalculus because it uses all the prerequisite skills from Algebra and Geometry, and it applies the concepts to real world problems.
Mr. Bilotti does not have a preference in a particular grade to teach, but he does find it much easier to teach students who have a strong background of the concept that is being applied in the classroom and the skills obtained in their previous math classes.
“The smartest people in this world not only answer questions but also ask them,” said Mr. Bilotti.
His biggest pet peeve of his job is that the school teaches algebra 2 before geometry. Mr. Bilotti said it is very difficult to fully understand the concepts being taught to them at a freshman or sophomore level.
Being a teacher can be very tough at times because students are very different, and all learn in different ways and varied paces. Math teachers must rely on memorization from previous background math classes rather than making connections with previous knowledge. Without background knowledge, moving into deeper concepts is difficult.
Mr. Bilotti says the most challenging aspect on being a math teacher is that all students have a different background which makes it harder to connect with his students. He strongly believes to be a successful teacher and to overcome these challenges, a teacher must take interest in student lives.
“Students don’t care how much you know until they see how much you care,” said Mr. Bilotti.
The person who has inspired and influenced Mr. Bilotti is Mr. Witko, his eighth grade Earth Science teacher. Mr. Witko was always so energetic and passionate about his subject area and was never afraid to make jokes or find fun ways to motivate his students. Likewise, Mr. Bilotti has always been known for his use of puns and humor in class to help students succeed.
“Everyone leaves a mark on this world in one way or another. Some leave a lasting impression, while others just leave a stain,” said Mr. Bilotti.
Mr. Bilotti’s hero is his father. His father's goal was to always make Mr. Bilotti’s life easier than his own. His dad had moved from Italy to Staten Island, and at three years old, his parents split. As a result, Mr. Bilotti moved to Pennsylvania, where he met his fiance, Kimberly Brill. She is an elementary special education teacher at Delfranco Elementary School in Bangor, and she works with students with multiple and severe disabilities.
On a typical Saturday night, Mr. Bilotti enjoys watching college football and cheering on his favorite team, Penn State, with his fiance and their friends. His go-to meal for football games is any kind of BBQ. Whether it is ribs, chicken, or wings, he loves it all.
Mr. Bilotti may not be as into October and horror as his soon-to-be wife, but his top three favorite scary movies are “Terminator 2,” “Silence of Lambs,” and “The Candy Man.”
Freshman Seminar Helps Puerto Rico
FHS Freshman Seminar students worked hard in Mr. Dunstan and Coach Stellato's classes packing and organizing donated clothing for hurricane victims in Puerto Rico. We had tons of clothing for infants to adults and had a great discussion about how we can continue to affect our community and world with compassion and grace. This is the spirit of Freedom Family and we are BASD PROUD!
Press Release
October 22, 2018
The Bethlehem Area School District is proud to announce that Todd Repsher, Deputy Chief of Police for the City of Bethlehem has accepted the position of Coordinator of School Safety and Emergency Management for the Bethlehem Area School District.
Deputy Chief Repsher is a 27 year law enforcement veteran having been promoted through the ranks of the City of Bethlehem police department. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience that will be an invaluable asset to the Bethlehem Area School District.
Deputy Chief Repsher served as a community police officer, Lieutenant in the Criminal Investigations Division and team commander of the Emergency Response Team prior to his current position in the department. He brings extensive experience in emergency management and collaboration with a wide range of public safety entities at the city, county, state and federal level. Mr. Repsher has extensive experience in threat assessment a key component of maintaining school safety.
"We are fortunate to have Deputy Chief Repsher join our BASD team. His wealth of knowledge and years of experience will further strengthen our school safety work, One of a school's biggest safety challenges is determining the creditability of any perceived threat. Mr. Repsher's expertise in threat assessment will be a true asset for our principals. He should be a reassuring presence for our parents, teachers, and students.
As Coordinator of School Safety and Management, a new position in the district, Mr. Repsher will oversee the on-going refinement of crisis planning, emergency communications, school facility security, crisis training, compliance monitoring with the PA Department of Education and coordination with local first responders.
Contact Information: Dr. Joseph J. Roy, Superintendent of Schools [email protected]
The Bethlehem Area School District is proud to announce that Todd Repsher, Deputy Chief of Police for the City of Bethlehem has accepted the position of Coordinator of School Safety and Emergency Management for the Bethlehem Area School District.
Deputy Chief Repsher is a 27 year law enforcement veteran having been promoted through the ranks of the City of Bethlehem police department. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience that will be an invaluable asset to the Bethlehem Area School District.
Deputy Chief Repsher served as a community police officer, Lieutenant in the Criminal Investigations Division and team commander of the Emergency Response Team prior to his current position in the department. He brings extensive experience in emergency management and collaboration with a wide range of public safety entities at the city, county, state and federal level. Mr. Repsher has extensive experience in threat assessment a key component of maintaining school safety.
"We are fortunate to have Deputy Chief Repsher join our BASD team. His wealth of knowledge and years of experience will further strengthen our school safety work, One of a school's biggest safety challenges is determining the creditability of any perceived threat. Mr. Repsher's expertise in threat assessment will be a true asset for our principals. He should be a reassuring presence for our parents, teachers, and students.
As Coordinator of School Safety and Management, a new position in the district, Mr. Repsher will oversee the on-going refinement of crisis planning, emergency communications, school facility security, crisis training, compliance monitoring with the PA Department of Education and coordination with local first responders.
Contact Information: Dr. Joseph J. Roy, Superintendent of Schools [email protected]
Linny Fowler Arts Educator of the Year
The Freedom Forum
The Freedom Forum

Ms. Jennifer Wescoe, English and drama teacher at Freedom High School, was awarded the Linny Fowler Award of Arts Educator of the Year. Ms. Wescoe was among twelve recipients recognized at the award ceremony held at Steelstacks on Thursday, November 8 for her dedication to the arts through education. Ms. Wescoe has spent her teaching career in arts education as an English and drama teacher, as well as the theatre director of Freedom High School. In addition, she launched the FHS Playwright Showcase at Steelstacks. Ms. Wescoe also shares her talents with the community through her involvement with the Pennsylvania Playhouse. Freedom faculty, staff, students, parents, and community are proud to have such a dedicated professional sharing her talents with today’s youth. Congratulations!
April 2014 Journalism Student Editorials
When is it time to retire?By: Princess Newman, journalism student
April 2014 Looking around in school, I noticed that there seems to be many older adults working here. It is not just the teachers; it is also the janitors, the nurses, the security guards, and the lunch ladies. Seeing them work here starts to have you wondering, “When is it time for them to retire?” Click here to continue to full article |
Value found in
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Deadly misconceptions used to oppose the death penaltyBy: Caitlin McCadden, The Freedom Forum
April 2014 Punishment is punishment. The fine line of how you perceive what acts deserve which consequences is where the debate comes into place. Not only in recent times, but also for years, Americans have disputed the death penalty with remarkably well-founded arguments on both sides. Click here to continue to full article |
For vs. Against weighting of AP and honors courses
Freedom softball sets up food drive

By Aubree Smith, Journalism Student
4/10/14
Recently, the Freedom High School softball team held a food drive where students at Freedom helped out those in need. The softball team had a fundraiser which collected items for the local food bank, New Bethany Ministries.
“We are collecting non-perishable food items and other personal hygiene items for the 500 families who come to the shelter for meals each month,” said Megan Brown, junior and Freedom softball player.
Also, the first block class with the most donated items won a Dunkin Donuts breakfast.
On March 21, the team members collected all of the boxes from the classrooms and counted how many items each box contained and announced the winner on March 24th.
“[The] food drive winner [is] Stellato’s class!!!!” was posted on the Freedom Softball’s Twitter account.
Mr. Stellato’s first block class enjoyed breakfast for all of their hard work and dedication to helping out those in need.
“They [won] a $40 Dunkin Donuts breakfast for their class,” said Dana Pollock, junior and Freedom softball player.
The FHS softball team created a friendly competition, which helped others in need too.
4/10/14
Recently, the Freedom High School softball team held a food drive where students at Freedom helped out those in need. The softball team had a fundraiser which collected items for the local food bank, New Bethany Ministries.
“We are collecting non-perishable food items and other personal hygiene items for the 500 families who come to the shelter for meals each month,” said Megan Brown, junior and Freedom softball player.
Also, the first block class with the most donated items won a Dunkin Donuts breakfast.
On March 21, the team members collected all of the boxes from the classrooms and counted how many items each box contained and announced the winner on March 24th.
“[The] food drive winner [is] Stellato’s class!!!!” was posted on the Freedom Softball’s Twitter account.
Mr. Stellato’s first block class enjoyed breakfast for all of their hard work and dedication to helping out those in need.
“They [won] a $40 Dunkin Donuts breakfast for their class,” said Dana Pollock, junior and Freedom softball player.
The FHS softball team created a friendly competition, which helped others in need too.
An epic tale brought back to life

"Son of God" hits the big screen
By Sarah Niswender, Journalism Student
4/10/14
In search of a movie to see this Easter? “Son of God” is an action epic film written by Richard Bedser, Christopher Spencer, Colin Swash, and Nick Young. It is directed by Christopher Spencer.
This film is the first motion picture about Jesus’ life since “Passion of the Christ,” which was released ten years ago, according to the official “Son of God” website.
The film tells the tale of Jesus Christ, played by Diogo Morgado. It shows life from birth, to teachings, to crucifixion, and onto his ultimate resurrection as told by John, one of Jesus’ followers played by Sebastian Knapp.
The story told in the film also shows the betrayals of a few of Jesus’ followers. Along with the decisions Pilate, prefect of Rome, played by Greg Hicks, has to weigh.
Morgado, Knapp, and Hicks bring the story of Jesus to the big screen with dazzling visual effects and powerful performances.
Even though the film is directed towards a religious audience, a non-religious person could also find the film to be both entertaining and informative. The film informs the audience about the history behind certain acts and traditions in faith.
“Son of God” has very vivid scenes, such as Jesus’ crucifixion and how it portrays certain characters’ beliefs.
The film tells an enthralling story about Jesus and his followers.
By Sarah Niswender, Journalism Student
4/10/14
In search of a movie to see this Easter? “Son of God” is an action epic film written by Richard Bedser, Christopher Spencer, Colin Swash, and Nick Young. It is directed by Christopher Spencer.
This film is the first motion picture about Jesus’ life since “Passion of the Christ,” which was released ten years ago, according to the official “Son of God” website.
The film tells the tale of Jesus Christ, played by Diogo Morgado. It shows life from birth, to teachings, to crucifixion, and onto his ultimate resurrection as told by John, one of Jesus’ followers played by Sebastian Knapp.
The story told in the film also shows the betrayals of a few of Jesus’ followers. Along with the decisions Pilate, prefect of Rome, played by Greg Hicks, has to weigh.
Morgado, Knapp, and Hicks bring the story of Jesus to the big screen with dazzling visual effects and powerful performances.
Even though the film is directed towards a religious audience, a non-religious person could also find the film to be both entertaining and informative. The film informs the audience about the history behind certain acts and traditions in faith.
“Son of God” has very vivid scenes, such as Jesus’ crucifixion and how it portrays certain characters’ beliefs.
The film tells an enthralling story about Jesus and his followers.
Spring into cleaning

By Marissa Mele, Journalism Student
4/10/14
It is about that time of the year where some start breaking out their brooms and garbage bags to welcome in the Spring.
Back then, after people faced cold and harsh winters, on the first warm and dry day was the day where everyone would work together to help transform the area where you lived. spring cleaning was an activity that almost everyone took part in every Spring.
Today, even considering taking a whole day to clean your house seems like such harsh and long task. People would much rather be doing something other than cleaning.
“I don’t participate in spring cleaning. I clean my house every week.” said Sarah Jayne Freitas,senior.
Now, spring cleaning is not really something people take pride in doing anymore. Now it is expected to have a clean house everyday.
It might be surprising, but spring cleaning can actually have positive effects. It can help relieve stress and help bring a family together by spending time with each other. It can also promote a healthy living environment for family or guests.
If you are one to participate in Spring cleaning, here are some great ideas for ways to start:
4/10/14
It is about that time of the year where some start breaking out their brooms and garbage bags to welcome in the Spring.
Back then, after people faced cold and harsh winters, on the first warm and dry day was the day where everyone would work together to help transform the area where you lived. spring cleaning was an activity that almost everyone took part in every Spring.
Today, even considering taking a whole day to clean your house seems like such harsh and long task. People would much rather be doing something other than cleaning.
“I don’t participate in spring cleaning. I clean my house every week.” said Sarah Jayne Freitas,senior.
Now, spring cleaning is not really something people take pride in doing anymore. Now it is expected to have a clean house everyday.
It might be surprising, but spring cleaning can actually have positive effects. It can help relieve stress and help bring a family together by spending time with each other. It can also promote a healthy living environment for family or guests.
If you are one to participate in Spring cleaning, here are some great ideas for ways to start:
Should the paparazzi be allowed to take pictures of celebrities' kids?

By Julia Ingarao, Journalism student
4/10/14
Think about some of the first things that you see when you are checking out at the grocery store. One of those things is probably a cover of a magazine that has juicy pictures of a celebrity with an eye catching headline. But, have you ever wondered how the magazines got those pictures?
Magazines buy pictures off of the paparazzi. The paparazzi is often known for standing outside the homes of stars or stalking them around in public, hoping to snap a picture of the celebrity.
Recently, it has come to the surface that more and more celebrities are coming out about how they feel when the paparazzi takes pictures of them with their children.
Students at Freedom High School were asked about what they thought of photographers taking pictures of celebrities with their children.
“Yeah, if you’re a celebrity, you signed up for it. If your kids didn’t sign up for it, you did. As long as the child isn’t in danger it shouldn’t bother you,” said Elizabeth Thompson, sophomore.
While students like Thompson felt that the paparazzi should be allowed to take the pictures, other students had a different point of view.
“No, they [the photographers] shouldn’t be able to [take pictures of celebrities and their children] because their children aren’t famous, that celebrity is famous. It’s their personal life. They should only be allowed to take pictures of them at public events,” said Courtney Turocy, freshman.
Both sides stated valid points, but what do you think?
4/10/14
Think about some of the first things that you see when you are checking out at the grocery store. One of those things is probably a cover of a magazine that has juicy pictures of a celebrity with an eye catching headline. But, have you ever wondered how the magazines got those pictures?
Magazines buy pictures off of the paparazzi. The paparazzi is often known for standing outside the homes of stars or stalking them around in public, hoping to snap a picture of the celebrity.
Recently, it has come to the surface that more and more celebrities are coming out about how they feel when the paparazzi takes pictures of them with their children.
Students at Freedom High School were asked about what they thought of photographers taking pictures of celebrities with their children.
“Yeah, if you’re a celebrity, you signed up for it. If your kids didn’t sign up for it, you did. As long as the child isn’t in danger it shouldn’t bother you,” said Elizabeth Thompson, sophomore.
While students like Thompson felt that the paparazzi should be allowed to take the pictures, other students had a different point of view.
“No, they [the photographers] shouldn’t be able to [take pictures of celebrities and their children] because their children aren’t famous, that celebrity is famous. It’s their personal life. They should only be allowed to take pictures of them at public events,” said Courtney Turocy, freshman.
Both sides stated valid points, but what do you think?
Light up the night

By Carli Markle, Journalism student
12/5/13
Luminaria Night is a popular tradition within the Lehigh Valley that started fifteen years ago around the holiday season. The purpose of Luminaria Night is to raise money for the homeless and families in need.
New Bethany Ministries is a charity which provides meals, financial services, and housing to poor, hungry, and mentally disabled individuals. They have been permanently affiliated with Luminaria Night since 2003.
Since then, Luminaria Night has added many new neighborhoods each and every year. Last year, 3,700 homes and businesses were lit, raising over $80,000 for New Bethany Ministries. The committee hopes to raise up to $90,000 and get even more people involved.
This year, Luminaria Night will be held on Saturday, December 14th. It is truly a beautiful sight when all the homes in a neighborhood have their streets lined with luminaries (white bags with votive candles burning inside).
“I like how the luminaries benefit people in need and how they light up so many neighborhoods across the Lehigh Valley,” said Kiera Pheiffer, junior.
This event is a great way to connect with neighbors and the community. The Luminaria Committee hopes for as many people as possible to participate in this night and, “be the light in your neighbors’ darkest hour.”
12/5/13
Luminaria Night is a popular tradition within the Lehigh Valley that started fifteen years ago around the holiday season. The purpose of Luminaria Night is to raise money for the homeless and families in need.
New Bethany Ministries is a charity which provides meals, financial services, and housing to poor, hungry, and mentally disabled individuals. They have been permanently affiliated with Luminaria Night since 2003.
Since then, Luminaria Night has added many new neighborhoods each and every year. Last year, 3,700 homes and businesses were lit, raising over $80,000 for New Bethany Ministries. The committee hopes to raise up to $90,000 and get even more people involved.
This year, Luminaria Night will be held on Saturday, December 14th. It is truly a beautiful sight when all the homes in a neighborhood have their streets lined with luminaries (white bags with votive candles burning inside).
“I like how the luminaries benefit people in need and how they light up so many neighborhoods across the Lehigh Valley,” said Kiera Pheiffer, junior.
This event is a great way to connect with neighbors and the community. The Luminaria Committee hopes for as many people as possible to participate in this night and, “be the light in your neighbors’ darkest hour.”
Movie Review: "The Hunger Games: Catching Fire"

By: Brittany Weaver, Journalism Student
12/5/13
Are you a huge fan of Jennifer Lawrence? Or, are you just looking for a thrilling movie to see with your friends? Head to your nearest theatre to check out “Catching Fire.” “The Hunger Games” (2012) set high expectations for “Catching Fire,” the sequel of “The Hunger Games,” after wowing the audience with special effects and a jaw dropping story. “Catching Fire” continues the story of Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark’s victory after winning the 74th annual Hunger Games.
Directed by Francis Lawrence, this action-adventure film, starring Jennifer Lawrence (Katniss Everdeen), Josh Hutcherson (Peeta Mellark), and Liam Hemsworth (Gale Hawthorne), captures the fight through the struggles of obeying the Capitol. Katniss and Peeta become the main focus of the Capitol after their victory in the 74th Hunger Games. While at the same time, they are attracting a rebellion in the Districts of Panem.
This adventurous and sparking film will suit anyone interested in the story of “The Hunger Games.” Your friends and family will love each shocking scene that leaves them on the edge of their seat.
The purpose of this film is to continue the action filled story “The Hunger Games.” A year after Katniss and Peeta’s victory that took place in the first movie, “Catching Fire” sets the scene where the two are told to go on the Victor's Tour. On the Victor’s Tour they visit all twelve districts. Before leaving, Katniss stumbles across a problem. She is confronted by President Snow who feels that Katniss disrespected him a year ago by choosing to die with Peeta during the last games, which resulted in them both being the winners. Since the rules say only one tribute can win, this backfired in the President's eyes. President Snow’s plan is becoming sinister. He directs her to put out the flames of rebellion while on tour or everyone she cares about will be in danger.
The direction in this film was headed toward the next step in “The Hunger Games.” Katniss fails her duty for President Snow. He then decides to hold an edition of “The Hunger Games” wherein previous winners will compete again, called the Quarter Quell. Snow secretly wants Katniss to die, in hopes the districts do not rebel.
The photography in this film was outstanding and the use of special effects gave the film an impressive edge.
This film became one of my favorites of all time. There was not one time I took my eyes off the screen. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time and it only left me with wanting more. I highly recommend everyone sees it because it is well worth it.
“I think it was better than the first movie,” said Nicoletta Napoli, a sophomore at Freedom High School.
12/5/13
Are you a huge fan of Jennifer Lawrence? Or, are you just looking for a thrilling movie to see with your friends? Head to your nearest theatre to check out “Catching Fire.” “The Hunger Games” (2012) set high expectations for “Catching Fire,” the sequel of “The Hunger Games,” after wowing the audience with special effects and a jaw dropping story. “Catching Fire” continues the story of Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark’s victory after winning the 74th annual Hunger Games.
Directed by Francis Lawrence, this action-adventure film, starring Jennifer Lawrence (Katniss Everdeen), Josh Hutcherson (Peeta Mellark), and Liam Hemsworth (Gale Hawthorne), captures the fight through the struggles of obeying the Capitol. Katniss and Peeta become the main focus of the Capitol after their victory in the 74th Hunger Games. While at the same time, they are attracting a rebellion in the Districts of Panem.
This adventurous and sparking film will suit anyone interested in the story of “The Hunger Games.” Your friends and family will love each shocking scene that leaves them on the edge of their seat.
The purpose of this film is to continue the action filled story “The Hunger Games.” A year after Katniss and Peeta’s victory that took place in the first movie, “Catching Fire” sets the scene where the two are told to go on the Victor's Tour. On the Victor’s Tour they visit all twelve districts. Before leaving, Katniss stumbles across a problem. She is confronted by President Snow who feels that Katniss disrespected him a year ago by choosing to die with Peeta during the last games, which resulted in them both being the winners. Since the rules say only one tribute can win, this backfired in the President's eyes. President Snow’s plan is becoming sinister. He directs her to put out the flames of rebellion while on tour or everyone she cares about will be in danger.
The direction in this film was headed toward the next step in “The Hunger Games.” Katniss fails her duty for President Snow. He then decides to hold an edition of “The Hunger Games” wherein previous winners will compete again, called the Quarter Quell. Snow secretly wants Katniss to die, in hopes the districts do not rebel.
The photography in this film was outstanding and the use of special effects gave the film an impressive edge.
This film became one of my favorites of all time. There was not one time I took my eyes off the screen. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time and it only left me with wanting more. I highly recommend everyone sees it because it is well worth it.
“I think it was better than the first movie,” said Nicoletta Napoli, a sophomore at Freedom High School.