Dezann Romain has died at the age of 36 due to the coronavirus.
In a statement issued by Brownsville’s Brooklyn Democracy Academy, it was revealed that Romain passed away due to complications caused by the deadly virus that has taken the lives of more than 16,000 people worldwide and sickened almost 400,000 others.
City officials have decided not to comment on when Romain contracted the virus and if she had other health issues. They have also declined to reveal what measures were put in place once it was discovered that she was ill.
The Brooklyn principal, who was beloved by her colleagues and students, was mourned on Facebook and other social media platforms.
It has been revealed that the principal landed the post at Brownsville’s Brooklyn Democracy Academy between 2016 and 2017.
The academy is described as a transfer school that benefits students who have struggled at traditional high schools and might not be able to graduate in time without the proper backing from educators.
According to people who knew the late principal, she loved her job and always made time to listen to her students every single day.
Courtney Winkfield, who worked and coached Romain while transitioning from the school’s assistant principal to principal, had nothing but praises for her colleague.
She said: “She gave her entire self to that community, and it did not matter how incredibly complex a problem was.”
She went on to say: “She never pitied her students. She never second-guessed what she was there to do,” said Winkfield. “She took every kid as her mission.”
The Council of Schools Supervisors and Administrators wrote the following in a statement: “It is with profound sadness and overwhelming grief that we announce the passing of our sister, CSA member Dezann Romain, Principal of Brooklyn Democracy Academy, due to complications from Coronavirus.”
It continued: “Our prayers are with her family and school community as we mourn alongside them. Please keep Principal Romain in your thoughts and continue to do everything possible to keep yourselves and your loved ones safe during this health crisis.”
Schools Chancellor Richard Carranza also issued a statement that read: “This is painful for all of us, and I extend my deepest condolences to the Brooklyn Democracy Academy community and the family of Principal Romain.”
Carranza added: “We’re all experiencing a deep sense of confusion, uncertainty, and sadness, and it’s more important than ever to provide support to one another. We’ll be there for the students and staff through whatever means necessary during this impossibly difficult time.”
New York’s public schools have been closed since March 16 in an effort to protect students and educators. Most recent data shows there are over 13,000 confirmed coronavirus cases in New York City, with 125 deaths.
