Therapy Dogs, Volunteers Help After Loss Of OHS Teacher

OSWEGO, IL — Support was being made available to students and staff at Oswego High School Thursday after the loss of a longtime teacher. Thursday morning, Principal Mike Wayne sent a message to parents notifying them of the death of science teacher Nicole Larsen, who taught at OHS for 17 years.

"It is with a very heavy heart that I share with you the news of the untimely loss of one of our own, science teacher Nicole Larsen," Wayne said in the message, calling Larsen "a bright spot in her school (whose) positivity and dedication to her students will be sorely missed."

Support was available all day to students in the OHS community room, Wayne said, adding, "Students, please let your teacher know if you would like to access this support." The student services conference room was also being made available throughout the day to students.

Parents were also given the option to pick their students up from school prior to the regular dismissal time and asked to report to the main entrance and door 1 to do so.

"Students will not be allowed to leave on their own, as we remain concerned about their emotional wellness and safety," Wayne wrote. "We will have trained social workers available at the school as long as needed to support students and staff. Please keep Mrs. Larsen’s family in your thoughts during this sad time."

District 308 issued a statement Thursday expressing its sorrow.

"The district expresses our deepest, heartfelt condolences on the untimely passing of OHS science teacher Nicole Larsen," the district said. "We will continue to support staff and students needing help during this difficult time. Please keep her family, friends, students, and fellow educators in your thoughts."

The district also said the Kendall County School and Community Assistance Team, Chick-Fil-A, parents and students offered support to school community members in mourning. Three therapy dogs were also on campus to provide comfort to students and staff.

On her staff bio page, Larsen said she began student teaching at the campus in 2001 and joined the science department in 2002. At OHS, she taught subjects including biology, honors biology, conceptual physical science, chemistry, honors anatomy and physiology, and medical topics.

"Teaching has allowed me to combine my passion for science with my love for kids," Larsen wrote. "I am thrilled to have the opportunity to share my passion with young minds."

Photo via District 308