District Mourns 'Bright Light' Special Education Teacher Of 24 Years

TINLEY PARK, IL — Kirby District 140 administrators and families are mourning the loss of a beloved, longtime Special Education teacher. Laura Cler, of Manhattan, died April 25 at 55 years old.

"We are deeply saddened by the death of Laura Cler, an early childhood teacher, hearing itinerant, and Special Olympics coordinator who worked with students throughout the District for 24 years," Superintendent Dan Callaghan told Patch. "She was a kind, compassionate, and dedicated educator who cared very deeply about the success and well-being of her students."

Wife to David and mother to Jackson, Jason, and Jimmy, Cler "greatly enjoyed being a teacher, working with her students, spending time with family and friends, and especially being a 'Boy Mom,'" family wrote in her obituary.

Families and colleagues reflected on Cler, sharing memories and condolences online.

"Laura was one in a million," a former District 140 colleague wrote. "She had a warm, infectious smile that just grabbed your heart whenever you saw her. She was an amazing, loving, compassionate, giving person who I will miss deeply. I am so thankful to God who brought her into my life through kids in Kirby district.

"Jason, Jackson and Jimmy, it was an honor knowing your mom and a privilege to work with her. Hold onto those blessings of her that God has given to you. She was His gift to all who knew her."

Another wrote that Cler was "a shining light at District 140," and "an exceptional teacher and friend who left a profound impact on everyone around her.

"Her sense of humor and smile were contagious, and she always made me feel at home when I entered her classroom. ... Her sense of humor and smile were contagious, and she always made me feel at home when I entered her classroom. I will surely miss her. Her spirit will live in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. Laura had this unique ability to connect with others, which was evident with her students and friends."

A coworker who oversaw Cler during her time student teaching called her love of humans "evident in every encounter she had.

"Who she was as a young teacher simply exploded into the very loved and impactful teacher she became," she wrote." I could not be more proud to have been a part of her life in some small way."

"She left an ever lasting, profound and positive impact on our family through KSD140," another wrote. "Her dedication and unwavering support encouraged so many to celebrate their achievements and overcome challenges with determination and grace."

A retired member of District 140 staff said Cler's passing "has left a huge void in her place here on earth in every area of her life.

"Her main goal was to always fight for & work towards whatever was best for her students in every setting. Laura was always smiling & delighted in helping 'her' kids. ... She was a great addition to any special education team she was a part of. ... Laura was a special person who loved working with her special students."

Special Olympics Illinois paid tribute to Cler, "one of our beloved coaches, plunge supporters, and friends

"She will be missed by us all," the group wrote on social media.

"Her presence and passion was so profound in the district. It was electric," another fellow District 140 teacher reflected. "Her dedication, love, and service for her students and Special Olympics was beautiful thing to witness. Such joy, encouragement, opportunities, and love she gave to her 'kids.'"

Visitation will be held Monday, April 29, at Kurtz Memorial Chapel, 65 Old Frankfort Way, from 3 to 8 p.m., and again on Tuesday, April 30 from 9 a.m. until time of the funeral service at 10 a.m. Interment to follow at Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Frankfort. In lieu of flowers, donations to Special Olympics are encouraged.

"We understand that coping with such loss can be incredibly challenging, especially for our students and their families," Callaghan said. "School counselors and social workers will be available throughout the upcoming weeks to provide resources and support. We encourage families to contact their school office if they need assistance."