Coronavirus claims the life of beloved math and technology teacher Jeffrey Alston of New York City. (Photo credit: New York State United Teachers)

With great sadness, I must report that coronavirus has claimed the life of yet another beloved educator. He is Jeffrey Alston, a teacher at Juan Morel Campos School of the Arts in New York City. Jeffrey passed away on April 12, 2020. He was only 56 years old.

For the past 15 years, Jeffrey taught math and technology at Juan Morel Campos School of the Arts in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.

The dedicated educator truly enriched his school community. He wrote grant proposals that led to the creation of the school’s computer lab 13 years ago. More recently, he was able to successfully advocate for an upgrade to the lab.

Jeffrey was also known for his wonderful sense of humor and his willingness to lend an ear. “He often chose not to give advice but to guide you to your decisions,” remembers colleague Keith Miller. “I am a better man and teacher for having known Jeff. His best quality was his ability to let you know he was there and he was listening; you knew he cared. That sense remains.” Colleage Camille Stephens agrees. “Alston was not just a teacher. He was a mentor, father figure, and motivator that brought calm and peace to students who were going through turbulent times,” she recalls.

To read more about this beloved educator, see his obituary at the New York State United Teachers.