Community Grieves Coach's Death In Saturday House Fire

SPRING VALLEY, NY — Spring Valley High School officials offered grief counseling to students and staff after JV soccer coach Venel Edouard was killed in a house fire Saturday.

"Our East Ramapo Central School District family is in mourning with the news of the death of Venel Edouard, a beloved member of the Spring Valley High School security force and Junior Varsity soccer coach," said East Ramapo Central School District Superintendent Dr. Deborah Wortham in a statement on the school's website. "Well-respected by students and staff members alike, Mr. Edouard worked tirelessly to support and safeguard our school community for nearly two decades. After the bell rang, 'Coach Venel' continued to serve our district as a teacher and mentor to countless student athletes. Mr. Edouard's enduring enthusiasm for coaching and his commitment to student safety will be sorely missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.

"Our counseling teams are available for any student, staff or faculty member who may need support."

Students, staff and friends took a lap at the high school on Sunday during a vigil in memory of Edouard.