New London — Bennie Dover Jackson Multi-Magnet School Campus teacher Cassandra Falvey has died unexpectedly, New London Superintendent Cynthia Ritchie announced in a letter to families Thursday. She said she had learned of the longstanding teacher's death that morning.

Ritchie said Falvey was a "beloved teacher" who taught social studies and math, and most recently became an English for Speakers of Other Languages case manager.

"Her kindness radiated throughout the classes she taught and in all of her interactions with students and staff," Ritchie wrote. "Her smile and positivity will be greatly missed among the students and staff of BDJMMSC."

The superintendent said the district has a crisis intervention team of people trained to help students, families and school staff, and counselors are available for students or staff who need support.

She encouraged parents who feel their child is having difficulty to discuss their thoughts and feelings with them.

This is not the first time this school year that the district has coped with the loss of a Bennie Dover Jackson employee: Assistant Principal Roland Dunham died unexpectedly in November.

Ritchie on Thursday reiterated a statement she shared then: "This news is sure to raise many emotions, concerns, and questions for the entire community of the City of New London, especially the staff and students of the school district."

e.moser@theday.com