The Kennett Consolidated School District is mourning the loss of beloved teacher Kathleen Arvanites, who passed away on Sunday from a sudden illness.
Arvanites taught Spanish in the district for more than 15 years, first at Kennett High School before moving to Kennett Middle School.
KCSD issued a statement this week, alerting the wider school community:
“It is with heavy hearts that we inform you of the unexpected passing of one of our esteemed colleagues, Kathleen Arvanites. Kathleen served as a dedicated Spanish teacher in the Kennett Consolidated School District for the past 16 years, contributing her talents both at the high school and, most recently, at the middle school.
“We understand that this news comes as a shock, and we extend our deepest sympathies to Kathleen Arvanites’ family and all members of the KCSD staff and students who knew and worked alongside her. We kindly ask for your patience and understanding as we navigate this difficult period together.
“At this time, it is believed that Mrs. Arvanites passed away due to a bacterial infection. Keeping consistent with prioritizing the safety of students and staff, the KCSD administrative team has been in touch with the family, as well as the Chester County Health Department. Please know the Health Department has shared that there is no action needed at this time. Should new information be communicated from the Chester County Health Department, the district will communicate with families immediately. If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to interim communications support, Kelsey Kebbel at 484-402-8595 or
kk*****@kc**.org
.”
A graduate of West Chester University, he is survived by her husband, Andrew and daughter, Keeley. She is also survived by her brothers: Jim (Laura nee Hibbs) and Mike (Allison nee Stoklosa); in-laws Debra and Tom Arvanites and sister-in-law, Lauren (Adam).