Lisburn school shocked after sudden death of teacher (50)
THE sudden death of a Co Antrim teacher on Tuesday has sent shockwaves through Laurelhill Community College, the chairman of its board of governors has said.
Staff and pupils at the Lisburn school are mourning the passing of Caroline Flynn (50) who taught there for more than 25 years. Ms Flynn taught French and Spanish.
The school said: “It is with sadness we have to announce the death of one of our serving members of staff, Ms Caroline Flynn. Ms Flynn was a valued member of staff for over 25 years. We are deeply saddened by her passing.”
The school’s annual celebration of success evening, due to take place tonight, has been cancelled as a mark of respect.
DUP councillor Jonathan Craig — who chairs the board of governors — admitted the school has been “deeply shocked” at the death of Ms Flynn. He added: “The sudden death of Caroline has sent shockwaves throughout the school. The loss of such a popular and skilled teacher in the prime of her life is just devastating.”
A colleague who remembered Ms Flynn from school days expressed her sadness on social media last night: “So shocked and saddened to read this news. I went to Ballymena Academy with Caroline, then taught with her at Laurelhill for 20 years.
“My deepest sympathies to her family circle.”
A number of former pupils also paid tribute to “an excellent teacher and mentor”.
“Such a lovely teacher. Was a privilege to be taught by her and for my daughter to have her for only a couple of weeks before she went off sick. Will be missed,” one student wrote.
Another added: “Really sad to hear this news. My thoughts are with her family. She will be deeply missed by staff and students.”