Whitehall-Coplay School Board member Josef A. Fragnito resigned from the board at the Feb. 16 meeting.

In his letter of resignation provided to The Press, Fragnito wrote, "My time spent on the school board has been an educational and rewarding experience that I could not have imagined. I am forever grateful to have served the communities of Whitehall and Coplay."

The letter continues with Fragnito thanking all the board members, administrators, teachers, support staff and students that he worked with.

"The dedication and hard work of everyone mentioned is the reason why I am so proud to be a part of the success and the continued success of the Whitehall-Coplay School District," the letter says.

"When I think of our district, I think of the following: teamwork, dedication, respect, vision, toughness and most of all Zephyr pride," Fragnito wrote.

In a phone call to The Press, district Superintendent John Corby said "Joe [Fragnito] was an advocate for kids. He felt strongly about items that were good for kids and supported it and helped keep it in front and moving it forward. Joe [Fragnito] did not shy away from tough decisions if it was in the best interest of the kids in the district. He was the voice of logic and reason many times."

According to Corby, Fragnito was a member of all the district's committees and chairman of the operations and transportations committee. He served on the board for 15 years.

The district has 30 days to appoint a new board member, but plans to do it sooner, Corby told the Press.

Corby said the board interviews the applicants before making a decision. The newly appointed member will serve until December 2015 and then be on the ballot for voters in May so the public can elect the person.

The application deadline ended 7 p.m. March 2.