Sep 28, 2016 2 min read

CHARLEROI – Charleroi Area School Board adopted an updated no-hazing policy, which will be in effect this school year. Superintendent Edward Zelich said that letters have been sent to coaches and other personnel concerning the changes in the policy.

The updated policy defines hazing and now states that a coach or student must report an incident of hazing to the proper authorities, such as school principal, teacher or administrator. The updated policy states that school personnel and students may not force anyone to eat, drink or take drugs or alcohol.

No one may be forced to do physical activities or calisthenics, or forced to be outside in cold and inclement weather. The policy also states that no hazing activities may be performed on or off school property

The board approved a change in the emergency service contract for the high school football games. Rostraver West Newton Ambulance Service was hired as the emergency services provider at a cost of $400 per game. The high school has four home games and one scrimmage.

Emergency services were previously provided by Mon Valley EMS at a flat rate of $6,000 for this school year. Zelich said the change was a cost savings.

A new CNC router has been acquired for the high school shop class with a $10,000 grant from the Washington County Community Foundation.

School board Kenneth Wiltz congratulated Zelich on receiving his doctorate degree from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. The board also approved giving Zelich a 4 percent salary increase, which is called for in the third year of his four-year contract. His current salary is $119,000.

“We are happy with what he has brought to our district,” Wiltz said. He added that it is rewarding to see the students interact with him and how his work for the district is directly motivated by the students and for the students. “We thank you and look forward to a long relationship.”