News Summary
The Spartanburg County School District 2 board has appointed Steven Fusaro as the new principal of Chesnee High School after a community tragedy. Fusaro, previously the assistant principal at Chesnee Middle School, takes over from Erik Gerstenacker. The school community is united in grief following a tragic accident that claimed the lives of three students. In response, the district has mobilized counselors, and the football team has shown solidarity through memorial gestures. Fusaro’s leadership will be essential in navigating this challenging period.
Chesnee, SC – The Spartanburg County School District 2 board of trustees has officially appointed Steven Fusaro as the new principal of Chesnee High School, following a recent community tragedy that has left many in mourning. Fusaro, who previously served as the assistant principal at Chesnee Middle School since 2023, takes over the position from Erik Gerstenacker, who has transitioned to an assistant superintendent role within the district.
Chesnee High School, home to approximately 700 students in grades 9-12, is currently navigating the aftermath of a tragic accident that occurred on September 29, which resulted in the deaths of three students. At 3:36 p.m. on that day, a vehicle left the roadway on Fairfield Road, leading to a crash that claimed the lives of three passengers while the driver sustained injuries and was hospitalized.
The victims of the accident were identified as 18-year-old Jeffrey Scott Wallace, 17-year-old Vladimir Matthew Rybinski, and 15-year-old Vitaliy Gregoriy Rybinski. Jeffrey Wallace and Vladimir Rybinski were seniors at the school, and Vitaliy Rybinski was a sophomore. In the wake of the tragedy, Principal Gerstenacker acknowledged the character and aspirations of the victims, illustrating their close connection to the school community.
In response to the overwhelming grief felt by students and staff, the school district swiftly mobilized counselors and mental health experts to provide support. Over a dozen local pastors have also volunteered their services at the school, offering comfort and guidance during this difficult time. To honor the memory of the victims, a candlelight vigil was held at Chesnee High School, drawing students, families, and staff together in a show of solidarity. Attendees lit candles and prayed for the families of the deceased.
The community’s response continued with the Chesnee High School football team, which displayed their support by wearing “Chesnee Strong” stickers on their helmets during a postponed game against Landrum High School. During the game, which Chesnee won with a score of 40-21, a moment of silence was observed, followed by a student-led prayer, further emphasizing the unity within the school and the surrounding community.
In a bid to support the grieving family of Matthew and Vitaliy Rybinski, a GoFundMe campaign was initiated, reflecting the compassion and solidarity among community members during this difficult time. Memorials have been established at the crash site, where individuals have gathered to pay their respects and share in the collective mourning.
Steven Fusaro’s appointment comes at a time when the school community is seeking healing and support following this tragic incident. As he steps into his new role, his leadership will be crucial in navigating the school through the grieving process while also fostering an environment of resilience and support among students and faculty alike.
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Additional Resources
- GoUpstate: New Principal for Chesnee High School
- Fox Carolina: Chesnee High School Vigil
- Post and Courier: Investigation into Chesnee Crash
- WYFF4: Funeral Arrangements for Students
- Wikipedia: Chesnee, South Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE SPARTANBURG
The SPARTANBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESpartanburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Spartanburg, Spartanburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spartanburg International Festival, Spartanburg ArtWalk, and motorsport events at Spartanburg Speedway. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce and the Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System Foundation, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and textiles that power the local economy such as BMW Manufacturing and Milliken & Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
