Students, staff and community members gathered Wednesday for a candlelight memorial honoring biology teacher Lori Brigner, who passed away over the weekend. Brigner, who died from complications from COVID, was new to the district.

The ceremony, which was attended by Brigner’s family, started with the lighting of candles, followed by comments and a prayer from Principal John Clements. The FFA officers were introduced for their donation of an oak tree that will be planted on campus in Brigner’s memory.

“It’s the least we could do,” FFA President Riley Ayres said. “The oak tree is just a simple reminder of Mrs. Brigner and what she brought to this school.”

Students from every school organization and fall sport attended, as did most of the staff and a number of parents.

“Even though I didn’t have her as a teacher, it was still emotional for me,” junior Pari Jariwala said. “Seeing the family was sad and heartbreaking.”

Leon County schools sent a flower arrangement to show their sympathy to the school and family.

“I’m grateful to have the support of the other schools during this time,” Clements said.

To close the memorial, students and staff members stepped forward to greet the family, shaking hands and paying their respect.

“The memorial was sad but touching at the same time,” senior Anthony Gonzalez said. “I only knew her for a short time, but she was a really good teacher, and she will be missed.”