WILMINGTON — Students, fellow teachers and administrators began the school week coping with the death of a teacher.

Denver Place Elementary School math and science teacher Amy Depp died suddenly Sunday evening.

This is the 27th academic year Depp, of Bellbrook, taught for Wilmington City Schools at different buildings and different grades, according to a central office staffer.

Denver Place Principal Cortney Karshner-Rethmel on Monday morning sent out a message to parents:

“It is with heavy heart that we inform you that Amy Depp our beloved 5th grade teacher tragically passed away Sunday evening.

“The teachers, counselors, principals and administration are prepared to provide grief counseling throughout the day. If you feel you need to keep your child home today, please contact the attendance number. Extra counselors and support personnel are available for all students and staff at Denver. We will call you personally if your child needs you directly.

“Please keep Mrs. Depp’s family in your thoughts and prayers. This is a tremendous loss for the Depp family, her students, WCS staff, and our community.”

Desiree Cameron was among those who posted a comment on the News Journal’s Facebook page. “I had to tell my son this morning,” she said. “She is his math teacher. She was so devoted, he eats lunch in her class with her every day and she even came to his basketball games to watch him. Prayers for her family …”

Colleen Kelly posted, “As anyone knew who worked with Amy, she cared deeply about her students. She was an exceptional teacher and person! If you were a Holmes First Grader in 2000-2005 and went to the moon, it was because of Mrs. Depp’s passion and hard work. She cared about her students deeply. Prayers for her family.”

Principal Karshner-Rethmel also stated in her message to parents, “As administrators, teachers, counselors and parents, we often struggle to find the right words to help children understand death, when we ourselves don’t have all the answers.”

She said if you are looking for ways to talk with your child about a death or tragedy, visit “Suggestions for Parents When Responding to a Death” at https://bit.ly/3NVR7EO .