South Fayette elects Fornella as new school board president
The South Fayette School Board unanimously selected Len Fornella as the new board president during its reorganization meeting Dec. 5.
Fornella, a life-long South Fayette resident, has served on the School Board since 1980. He will take over for former School Board President William Newcomer, who remains on the board.
Alan Vezzi, also a life-long resident, was unanimously voted to become the board’s vice president.
The board reorganization went quickly, with no opposition for any of the appointed positions. Vezzi will continue in his role as representative for the Parkway West Board. Lena Hannah, who was not present at the meeting, will continue as the board’s legislative representative and Alexander Czaplicki will remain South Hills Area School Districts Association representative.
After the reorganization, the school board held its regular meeting, which began with a brief moment of silence for South Fayette families enduring a difficult holiday season. The moment of silence was inspired by the passing of Sgt. Collin Rose, a former South Fayette student who was shot and killed in the line of duty in Detroit.
Afterward, a moment of celebration was held as the board honored middle school student Grace Howard, a three-time Junior Olympic Medalist. Howard’s parents watched proudly as Superintendent Bille Rondinelli presented her with a certification of recognition for her sixth-place finish in the girls’ high jump competition in the Junior Olympics in Sacramento, Cali. This past July.
“We know that big things are in store for you,” Rondinelli said, “and we couldn’t be more proud that you’re a South Fayette Lion.”