BREAKING: Oswego School District 308 notifies parents of OHS teacher's death

Oswego School District 308 notified parents of Oswego High School students Thursday morning, Aug. 30, of the death of a long-time faculty member.

An email sent to parents reads as follows: "It is with a very heavy heart that I share with you the news of the untimely loss of one of our own, science teacher Nicole Larsen, who has been with us for 17 years. She was a bright spot in our school, and her positivity and dedication to her students will be sorely missed.

"We have support available to students and staff to help everyone through this very difficult time.
Support for students will be available all day in the Community Room. Students, please let your teacher know if you would like to access this support.

"The Student Services conference room is available for staff throughout the day.

"Parents who wish to pick up their students before scheduled dismissal may report to our main entrance, Door 1. Students will not be allowed to leave on their own, as we remain concerned about their emotional wellness and safety. We will have trained social workers available at the school as long as needed to support students and staff. Please keep Mrs. Larsen’s family in your thoughts during this sad time."

Information on the cause of Larsen's death was not immediately available from the district.

According to Larsen's profile on the OHS website, she joined the science department in 2002 after completing her student teaching at the school in 2001. She graduated from the University of Illinois Chicago with a degree in biology with highest honors. Larsen earned a master's degree in teaching at National Lewis University, Chicago, and a second master's degree from Aurora University in teaching leadership for life science teachers.

During her career at OHS, she taught biology, honors biology, conceptual physical science, chemistry, honors anatomy and physiology and medical topics. Larsen was also a junior class sponsor, according to the website profile.