LORAIN, Ohio — The Lorain City School District is mourning the death of a fourth-grade teacher.
Carmen Gallo began her career at Lorain City Schools in 2000, working at both Frank Jacinto Elementary School and Irving Elementary School before teaching fourth graders at Hawthorne Elementary School.
Hawthorne Elementary School Principal Stephanie Alexander-Johnson issued a statement on behalf of the entire elementary school.
Words are never adequate in moments like these,” Alexander-Johnson said. “We will say though, that our hearts go out to you, and we will always remember the joyous memories that we are privileged to have in knowing Carmen. To Carmen’s sons, we want to say once the tears have dried up, and you have said your goodbyes, what is left is the beautiful and happy memories that you shared with your mother. May you find comfort in the memories you shared with your mom, accept our sincere condolences, and know that we loved your mother and we will always love you.
To ensure that students, faculty and those close to Gallo can attend her funeral, Hawthorne Elementary School announced it will close its doors on Thursday, Oct. 10, in observance of the prayer service to be held at 9:30 a.m. at Bogner Family Funeral Home, located at 36625 Center Ridge Road in North Ridgeville.
A burial service will immediately follow at 10 a.m. at St. Peter Church, located at 35777 Center Ridge Road in North Ridgeville.
There will also be a service on Wednesday, Oct. 9, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Bogner Family Funeral Home.
Because she was a longtime volunteer at the organization, the Gallo family is asking any monetary donations be made to the Special Olympics in her honor.
Lorain City Schools said that Gallo was an avid University of Michigan fan and ask those attending the services wear the school’s colors of maize and blue to honor the beloved teacher.
