The Panther Valley school board has replaced a longtime board member.

Gary Porembo submitted his resignation earlier this month, because he is moving out of the area. On Wednesday, board members accepted his letter and appointed his replacement, Pat Leonzi.

Leonzi, of Summit Hill, has experience serving on borough council and the borough water authority.

Board President Danny Matika said that the board chose Leonzi because of his experience. He said he expects Leonzi to work hard to serve the district.

“I know him. He’s going to be here. He’s going to do what has to be done to mesh with the board,” Matika said.

Leonzi said his goal as a board member is to help the school district and its students.

“Whatever helps them, we’re gonna do,” he said.

Porembo said that looking back on his six-plus years on the board, he was proud of how the board worked together. He said he stuck to the priorities that inspired him to run.

“I thought I’d help the students and community, and try to keep the taxes down. That was my main goal,” he said.

During the meeting, school officials praised Porembo for his service to the district.

Board member Renee DeMelfi said that he committed time, especially when it came to policy and budgets.

Superintendent David McAndrew Jr. said he was an asset to the district over the years.