Chartiers Valley School District Recognizes Local Hero

Chartiers Valley School District honored Joe Ragni, Chartiers Valley student and Scott Township lifeguard, Tuesday night during their school board meeting.

Ragni, who is a first year lifeguard, saved a young boy, Brandon Sparber, of South Fayette, from drowning July 5.

Sparber was treading water in the pool by the waterslide when he suddenly went under. Ragni acted fast when he saw the young boy struggling and administered CPR after pulling him from the water. Sparber made a full recovery at Children’s Hospital.

Chuck McCartney, Chartiers Valley public relations coordinator, said the district wanted to recognize Ragni for his heroic act.

According to McCartney the certificate read, “The Chartiers Valley School District Recognizes the Outstanding Accomplishment of Joseph Ragni for demonstrating unusual heroism, skill and resourcefulness in saving the life of a drowning swimmer. True heroism is remarkably sober, very undramatic. It is not the urge to surpass all others at whatever cost, but the urge to serve others at whatever cost.”

Also during the meeting…

• The school board approved a motion to approve several athletic coaching positions for the 2011-12 school year.
• The board passed a beverage contract between Coca-Cola Refreshments and Chartiers Valley School District for a five year term, but has to have the final approval of the District Solicitor.
• The school board approved a motion to elect and appoint Dr. Brian White as Superintendent for a five year term expiring Aug. 23, 2016. White has been with the district just over a year.