MOUNDSVILLE, W.Va. — The student body, faculty, and staff at John Marshall High School are leaning on one another today.
Beloved English teacher Monica Will was one of the victims of the double-homicide in Marshall County early Thursday morning.
“She was an English teacher and taught some elective classes like Mythology. She was just a really, really intelligent lady and taught a lot of the children,” said Marshall County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Shelby Haynes.
Will was gunned down along with her husband in their home in Marshall County by Cyle Fabrizio, 25, of Moundsville. Deputies say Fabrizio was angered the couple would not allow him to date their 16-year old daughter.
As news of the horrific tragedy spread Thursday morning, classes and school activities were cancelled as the county began to circle the wagons. Teachers and staff knew they needed to be strong for the students, especially those who were close to Will. According to Dr. Hayes there were several.
“Kind of the message of you have to put your own oxygen mask on first,” said Haynes. “We want our teachers and staff to be strong to be able to support children, but we have to be sure they’re okay as well.”
Will hosted a close knit group of students in the card club, which met during activity period and lunchtime. The group collectively made cards for those who might need some cheering up or congratulating.
“She did have a group. She had a card club who would come to her room and eat lunch and then they would make cards for people and do some activities like that. She was just a very caring individual,” she said.
Will will be honored at Friday night’s John Marshall football game which will be homecoming for the Monarchs.