Garner High School teacher dies unexpectedly. Grief counselors are on hand to help.

Garner High School is in mourning after the unexpected death of one of its teachers.

In an email message Tuesday to families, Garner High Principal Matt Price said that Jake Stevens died Monday night unexpectedly. No cause of death was given for Stevens, a career and technical education (CTE) teacher at the magnet school.

“Our condolences, thoughts, and prayers go out to his family and his friends and coworkers,” Price said in the message. “Please keep them and all of those that have been impacted by this loss in your hearts and prayers. We want to honor Mr. Stevens’ family and be respectful of their needs of privacy at this time.”

Stevens was a teacher for 16 years, according to the Wake County school system. A spokesperson for WCPSS said Stevens had been suspended with pay on Friday. The reason for the suspension is confidential.

Stevens had been a student, basketball player and football player at Garner High. Due to Stevens’ death, Tuesday’s varsity basketball game against Willow Spring High was canceled.

His father, Tim Stevens, was The News & Observer’s longtime high school sports editor until his retirement. He is a member of the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame.

‘Work through this together’

Price said the school’s student services team and additional support from the district will be available for students who need to talk with someone.

Price provided families with additional resources, including letting them know that Transitions GriefCare offers a range of free support services to help children and teens explore, understand and express their grief.

“After a traumatic event such as the death of someone they are familiar with, we can expect students to feel anxious, sad, fearful, angry, or vulnerable,” Price said. “They may be scared of losing someone else close to them.

“Through encouraging discussion, being supportive of feelings, providing factual information and suggesting positive outlets, you can help your child be aware of and process their emotions.”

The principal pledged that “these are heavy moments that we will work through together as a school family.”