John Bligh
- Paraprofessional
- PS 194 in Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn
Her students loved her and looked forward each day to her bright and bubbly personality, which lit up the classroom.
Michelle Alexander was only 29 years old and five years into her career as a paraprofessional at PS 194 in Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn, when she died of coronavirus on April 5.
“She had a heart of gold,” said 5th-grade teacher Katherine Malara, who shared a classroom with Michelle.
Malara described how nurturing and comforting Michelle was to the student she worked one-on-one with after the boy lost his father. She was in touch with the boy’s family and bought him pajamas for the school’s pajama celebration, Malara said.
“She connected with students, and students she worked with her first years here still ran up and hugged her,” Malara said.
PS 194 Chapter Leader Jennifer Hanna said Michelle always made an extra effort by celebrating her students’ small and big accomplishments.
“She was an amazing, sweet and loving person,” said Hanna.
Michelle arrived at school each morning with a cup of Dunkin Donuts coffee, ready to begin the day, Hanna remembers.
Michelle loved shopping, getting her nails done and spending time with friends and family, especially her mother, who was her best friend.
Michelle is survived by her parents Donna and Kevin; her siblings Michael, Christina and Nicole; and a niece and nephew.
Condolences can be sent to
Donna Reilly
2176 East 74th St.
Brooklyn, NY 11234
I came across a list of people who died of covi and Michelle’s departure made me cried. I read about how wonderful she was with her students, families snd coworkers. My heart and condolences to her family. She left too soon. Might she rest in peace.
I’m so sorry that this wonderful young woman was taken so soon. It sounds like she was really loved and respected by her students and colleagues. We need teachers and child care workers like her so much. You can tell she was a sweet, kind, gentle soul from her face. Such a loss to this world. My condolences to the family and everyone who loved her and May it be a comfort to know that she spent her life making a difference and improving the lives of others.
I’m very sad to see this. May the family be comforted knowing that she made a difference. This is in my neck of the woods. I pass by the school often. I’m very sorry
Michelle will live forever in the hearts of all whose lives she touched. Sincerest condolences.
I am so sorry to see this brighter, energetic, wonderful teacher gone. Too soon!!
My sincere condolences to her family and thank you for bring so much joy especially to her students
So tragic! Thank you for your service! Prayers for the family! RIP
My condoleances. Sweet young lady, pleasant personality. Rest in peace. Former collegae at ps 269, now 361
We were coworkers at P.S 269 before she left for the other school, she was very sweet and quiet and she did love the kids a lot, we had the pleasure to go together to a workshop in Manhatthan and we share some lunch and talk that day, I’m still very surprised for her lost and I hope her family find some comfort in this very, very hard and sad situation
I worked with her for 2 years at P.S. 269… dedicated and surly did care about the students. Death is NEVER easy… my thoughts are with everyone she ever touched ❤️
Gone too soon