The Bethlehem Central School District community is mourning the loss of longtime BC educator Michele Atallah. The beloved Bethlehem Central High School French teacher passed away on Sunday, November 2, 2025, after a battle with cancer.
Known for her commitment to excellence, Michele Atallah was regarded for her love of teaching, her passion for the French language and culture, and her dedication to student growth both academically and personally.
Madame Atallah, as she was called by her students, had been employed as a Bethlehem teacher for more than 37 years. Most recently, Atallah taught advanced French courses, including French 3, Intermediate French Honors, and AP French. Mme. Atallah had also been a teacher in the high school’s Lab School program for many years and was a faculty advisor to several student clubs and organizations, including The Oriole (Yearbook), Amnesty International, the National Honor Society, and Model UN. Atallah had been on a medical leave of absence since September 2025 and had not been teaching in the current school year.
Grief counselors and support staff will be available for BC students and staff members who wish to talk or need assistance processing this difficult news.
Madame Atallah was also known within her department and throughout the district as a champion of public education, civic engagement and human rights.
“Michele was among the most sincere and authentic individuals I have had the privilege of knowing,” said Superintendent Jody Monroe. “A fierce protector of public schools, a sounding board for colleagues, and a shoulder to lean on for countless students, Madame Atallah gave more than she took in everything she did. She was deeply committed to making this world a better place, and the world is a better place because of her.
“Behind the trademark twinkle in her eye was a thinker, a fighter and a rebel for the causes and the people she cared about,” added Superintendent Monroe. “While we mourn, we can all find comfort in the fact that Michele Atallah’s spirit will remain a constant in our lives.”
Bethlehem High School principal David Doemel, Jr. said Atallah was extremely popular with students and staff.
“Lessons were not simply reserved for her French students; Michele Atallah taught us all,” said Bethlehem Central High School principal Dave Doemel. “She brought unmatched energy to the high school every year, and was rewarded for it with the deepest respect of students, colleagues and one grateful principal.
”At the high school, we encourage students and staff to ‘Be the change they want to see in the world.’ No one had to look much further than Room D130 for that inspiration,” said Principal Doemel. “Madame’s legacy will be that inspiration now.”
Michele Atallah is survived by her husband, George, and two children, Leila and Tarek. Services for Madame Atallah are being finalized by the family. Details about those services will be shared by the district as soon as they become available.