Math Teacher Passes Away at School

Students, Faculty in Shock After Sudden Death

Daughter Responds to Supporters: “I Will Stay Strong”

Story Updated 11:55AM, Sunday, June 14, 2009

– Allison Goldsberry

A beloved middle school math teacher passed away suddenly at school Thursday morning.

Maria Lisa Davis, 56, a Grade 6 math teacher at the McGlynn Middle School, passed away from a heart attack early Thursday morning.

“Our prayers and thoughts are with her daughter Arianna and all the members of her family,” said School Superintendent Roy Belson in a statement on the school’s webpage.

In the statement Superintendent Belson said a Crisis Intervention Team made up of professionals trained to help with the needs of students, parents, and school personnel is available, as well as counselors at each school.

Parents are encouraged to contact McGlynn Middle School Psychologist Sandy Watson as well as Guidance Director Frank Howard with any concerns.

“We are saddened by the loss to our school community and will make every effort to help you and your child as needed,” said Belson.

“Mrs. Davis was a great teacher at the McGlynn…She’ll be dearly missed,” said Dave Adams, parent of a 7th grader who had Ms. Davis for his 6th grade home room and math class.

“It is a very sad day and my heart goes out to all her colleagues and her students at the McGlynn School, the math department, and the Vocational School where she began her career in Medford. Most especially we think of her daughter in this difficult time,” said School Committee member Paulette Van der Kloot.

“MariaLisa has been my neighbour since Bob and I moved to Medford nine years ago. She always took great interest in the children on the street and was always a warm presence. Her beautiful daughter, Arianna, is a most purposeful, resourceful, and delightful young woman. I can’t imagine her shock and sorrow as a result of her mom’s sudden passing,” said Linda Garriott.

Click on “Comments” to read more reactions from Ms. Davis’ friends and colleagues.

Davis’ daughter, Arianna, a McGlynn Middle School student, responded Friday to the outpouring of support she has received on InsideMedford.com. Nearly 250 and counting comments of support have been posted by friends and members of the community.

“it nice to see that a lot of people care about me, and the death of my mom but i will stay strong (as people have been saying for me to do) even though it might be hard…i don’t [know] what i’m going to do, i might move and change schools or saty (sic) here i don’t know… but i really love that i have support (even from people i don’t know) i will be in school on monday! i love and miss you a lot mommy,” wrote Arianna in her comment on InsideMedford.com

A wake is being held out of Gaffey Funeral Home on Monday, June 15, from 4PM-8PM.  The funeral will be on Tuesday at St. Francis at 11AM, with doors opening at 10AM.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking friends to consider contributions to an education fund for Davis’ daughter Arianna. All donations should be made out to “Arianna Davis”, P.O. Box 900, Manchester, NH 03105.

Students have created a dedication video to Ms. Davis on YouTube.com.  Click here to watch it.

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