Washington County Public Schools are mourning the sudden passing of a beloved educator.
54-year-old Stacie Pinkston unexpectedly died on Monday, December 30 at the Fairview Park Hospital in Dublin. She served as a paraprofessional at the Washington County High School.
Sandra McMaster – who is serving as Interim Superintendent of WACO Public Schools as Superintendent Vickie Harden is on a medical leave of absence – addressed the community in a press release on Thursday to share the news and express the sadness of the school district in losing a valued and admired member.
“Stacie has always been a positive and friendly face for our students, staff, and parents. Ms. Pinkston will be remembered for her constant smile and caring personality. She was consistently willing to help serve our students in any capacity and was a true team player.”
Pinkston was working in her 12th year as a paraprofessional at the Washington County High School at the time of her passing.
According to Interim Superintendent McMaster, the school district is making grief counselors available to students and staff upon their return from the End-of-First-Semester Winter Break. Teachers and staff report next Monday for a professional learning day. Students return to class on Tuesday, January 7.
“Our hearts are broken for Ms. Pinkston’s family, which includes other members of our WACO Schools community,” said Interim Superintendent McMaster. “Please continue to hold all of them in your thoughts and prayers. We sincerely hope that the cherished memories of Stacie will bring peace in the days to come.”
Funeral services for Ms. Pinkston will be held on Sunday, January 5 at 2:00 p.m. in the St. Paul CME Church of Sparta. Wheeler’s Funeral Home of Sandersville is in charge of arrangements.