Knoch school board recognizes the efforts of staff during fatal crash between bus, motorcycle
The Knoch school board took time out of their Wednesday, Sept. 11 meeting to recognize the efforts of staff related to a fatal crash involving a primary school bus on Aug. 21, the first day of classes for students.
A 79-year-old motorcyclist from Saxonburg collided with the bus and died at the scene.
Superintendent David Foley spoke about the incident and thanked the staff member who made sure the students on the bus were protected and safe.
“We want to recognize the Knoch School District staff who reacted quickly to keep our student passengers safe and to maintain a calm environment in such a traumatic situation,” said Foley.
Recognized by the board was bus driver Thomas Branem; school police officers Jim Willochell and Pat Sarnese; elementary principals Kim Fitzgerald and Greg Boerio; assistant superintendent Melissa Grantz; transportation secretary Morgan Rosenbauer; and director of technology Roger Myers.
Branem, who was not in attendance, was commended for his immediate reaction to pull the bus to the side of the road and moved the children on board to one side of the bus where the scene was not visible to them.
“It was really smart thinking on his part, and we want to recognize him,” said Foley.
Those in attendance were presented with certificates of recognition by Foley.
Board member Justin Kovak also wanted to personally thank the staff.
“I have several friends that had kids on that bus. You did a phenomenal job. You’ve taken what was a terrible situation and made it as good as you possibly could,” Kovak said.
Kovak said that there were some parents who weren’t able to attend the meeting, but wanted to say thank you.
“There was one of my friends, they had a kindergartner on that bus. That was the first day the child ever went to school. So thank you from him and from us and from myself,” Kovak said.
Other happenings at the meeting included a prayer and moment of silence in remembrance of the Sept. 11 tragedy and the first appearance of student representatives Emma Mrozek and Tony Lajevic, who delivered student news to the board, including upcoming PSAT dates and club and sports updates.
The next Knoch School Board meeting will be held on Oct. 9 at the middle school. This meeting will be a combined work session and regular board meeting due to the cancellation of the work session scheduled on Oct. 2.
