Loss of beloved science teacher stuns and saddens

Students and staff returned from spring break mourning the tragic death of biology and zoology teacher Jim Wright, who died March 27 in Berkeley.

Information released by Berkeley police and school administrators stated that he was hit by a BART train at the North Berkeley station. School officials have confirmed that Wright took his own life.

Wright has taught science at Northgate since 93’. Word of his death traveled quickly through social media the week of spring break, and upon students’ return, the halls were filled with shared memories, as well as thoughts and emotions on the loss of Wright.

The school brought in counselors, and volunteers from the Animal Rescue Foundation brought about six therapy dogs, turning the library into a gathering place for those grieving or remembering. Many voiced their feeling on paper rather than out loud.

“You had such a kind heart and a true love from science and education. Thank you for all your time here at Northgate making it a better place. You will be missed,” wrote freshman Kate Bowman in bright purple marker, one of dozens of messages scrawled on the butcher paper taped to the atrium window.

Students were not the only ones grieving. History teacher Meg Honey, who graduated from Northgate in 1998, had the unique experience of not only knowing Wright as a colleague, but also as a teacher. He was her zoology teacher.

“I never saw Jim Wright without a positive word for somebody, without a smile, or a genuine interest in how someone was doing. You could always count on him to be encouraging and bring light to this place,” said a saddened Honey.

Administrators and staff, many grieving themselves over Wright’s death, designated April 4 as a day “less for academics and more for sharing emotions” on campus and in many classes, Counselor Mary Tsuboi said.

“We don’t know what Mr. Wright was going through outside of Northgate, but we know what a caring and kind person he was at school,” she said. “We may not understand why death occurred, but it’s okay to grieve and be sad,” she added.

Tsuboi also addressed the concern of some students that there was mention at school of the presumed suicide. Without commenting directly on the issue with regards to Wright, she gently urged people to reach out to others in times of sadness or depression.

“Suicide is not the answer,” Tsuboi said. “There are resources around – crisis counseling, telephone hotlines and friends.”

Tsuboi said that on a campus where many people – students and staff – interact daily with their teacher, colleague or friend, it is tempting for people to look back and wish they had done something differently. “In retrospect, we can’t look back at ‘woulda, coulda, shoulda. But if you have more that you wish you had shared with Mr. Wright or want to now, reach out and write a letter. His wife and daughters would love to hear from you.”

Counselors remain available to support anyone in need of comfort, and may be contacted by phone at 938-3921 ext:3519