06/06/2026
Keep Melanie's family, students and staff in your thoughts and prayers. So shocked and deeply saddened to hear of her passing. 💔
With Deep Sadness: Passing of Melanie Thomas
Dear Forest Park Families,
We are writing to you today with profound sadness to share the devastating news of the passing of our beloved friend and longtime coworker, Melanie Thomas. Melanie passed away tragically on the evening of Tuesday, June 2, 2026.
Melanie was an important part of our school community. She was a very creative and beloved Instructional Resource Teacher who recently celebrated 10 years of teaching. Melanie loved her job and working with young students with exceptionalities. Her gentle and kind approach touched the lives of everyone. She was a great friend and colleague who will be remembered for her warmth, passion, and commitment to her students and their families. Melanie left a positive impact on everyone who knew her. She will be deeply missed by all staff and most especially the littles she worked so closely with each day.
This news is difficult to process. Students may have questions and experience big emotions. As we collectively work through our grief, we hope that the school community finds strength in each other during this difficult time to support your children through their sadness.
In the coming days, we will ensure that grief and emotional supports are available for any student or staff member who needs them. Our deepest thoughts are with Melanie’s family; her husband, Steven, her precious baby, Rosalie, her mother and brother, all her family and friends who are mourning and processing this unimaginable loss.
In deepest sympathy,
Forest Park Staff
