Beloved West Orange Teacher Passes Away, Community Mourns

WEST ORANGE, NJ — The West Orange community is mourning Brad Mitchell, a science teacher at the high school who died Sunday.

West Orange High School Principal Oscar Guerrero announced Mitchell’s passing on social media, offering a message of condolence to all those mourning the beloved educator. Guerrero wrote:

“It is with great sadness that we inform you of the untimely passing of one of our beloved teachers, Mr. Brad Mitchell, science teacher at West Orange High School. Mr. Mitchell passed away on Sunday, April 23, 2023. Mr. Mitchell was an integral member of our school community and dedicated his life to education teaching in our district since 2005. He was admired and respected by students, colleagues, parents and guardians. He had an immense passion for teaching and always made the extra effort to help those in need.”

Guerrero continued:

“During this difficult time, our thoughts and prayers are with Mr. Mitchell’s family and loved ones. We understand that this news may be difficult to process, and we are committed to supporting our West Orange High School family during this time of grief. We will provide counseling services to our students and staff, and encourage anyone who needs support or would like to speak with someone to reach out to your school counselor directly.”

The principal wasn’t the only one to remember Mitchell with fondness. Seen online:

• “One of the best teachers I have ever had. 10 years later I still share stories about him both as a person and teacher and his role shaping my life. West Orange lost one of their best, sending love and prayers to his family and everyone who was lucky enough to know him.”
• “My daughter was fortunate to have Mr. Mitchell her freshman year, the ‘Zoom school year’ for honors biology as a freshman. As an educator myself, I was home during that time. I had the experience and pleasure of hearing him teach every day. He was always engaging, always funny, and always knowledgeable. He truly LOVED what he did and I loved hearing how he interacted with the students. My daughter texted me from school this morning when she heard the news. So so sad and what a loss.”
• “Be thou at peace Mr. Mitchell. It was a honor being under your tutelage during my time at WOHS. Continue to inspire and shine that great light of wisdom down on us from above.”

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