School District 'Completely Devastated' By Principal's Death

CENTER MORICHES, NY — The Center Moriches School District is cloaked in mourning after the death of Clayton Huey Elementary School Principal Kim Hardwick, who died on Monday at the age of 50.

Superintendent Russell Stewart sent a message to the community after the district's unspeakable loss: "Mrs. Hardwick was an exceptional person. Her passion for life, kids, and education could not be rivaled. Positivity, creativity, and productivity predominated and reigned in her being. She was always ahead of the game, and dedicated herself to promoting and producing excellence in all aspects within, and outside her field," he said. "Everywhere she went, and every ear she caught was going to leave a little more encouraged and challenged. Mrs. Hardwick was a very giving person, also giving of her time, and was always there for anyone who needed her. She had a heart for those less fortunate, especially children, always going above and beyond to make sure all students had equal opportunity, and any student needs were acknowledged and attended to with speed. There would be no child left behind with Mrs. Hardwick around."

And, Stewart added: "Mrs. Hardwick was a teacher at heart, with a great passion for life, and imparted knowledge wherever she went. Life is precious, and every day to be treasured, and Mrs. Hardwick lived by, and demonstrated those convictions. As the Word of God implores, '...teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom,' may we heed the psalmist's admonition and exhortation. As we fondly remember and muse upon the heart-wrenching passing of an extraordinary educator, administrator, mother, wife, friend, and colleague, may we thoughtfully and heartfully ponder the words of our Creator.

"Mrs. Hardwick's passing will leave an emptiness that cannot be filled, and a silence that cannot be quelled. She will forever be remembered and missed," he said.

Parents and the community turned to social media to mourn their great loss after Hardwick's passing, many wondering tearfully how they would tell their children, who loved her so.

"We were sad to hear the news of Kim Hardwick's passing," said Keith Caputo of the Helping Makes U Happy organization. "She was a great friend to me, to Mom, and to Helping Makes U Happy. She had so much energy, so much positivity, and was all about promoting helping and kindness. Kim made you feel like you were her hero when, in fact, she was all of ours."

And, added Keith's mom Cassy: "This was a huge loss for the community."