Nacogdoches ISD mourns loss of teacher

NACOGDOCHES, Texas ( KETK ) — Nacogdoches ISD is mourning the loss of a beloved teacher.

According to a release, Jody Franks, who taught at two Nacogdoches ISD campuses and was named a campus and district Teacher of the Year, died after an "extended illness." Over the years, she helped coach UIL academic teams and the GT robotics groups. Franks was a part of the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, Ala.

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"Ms. Franks was an outstanding teacher who worked so hard to connect with and influence her students," said NISD Superintendent Dr. Gabriel Trujillo. "She created an atmosphere in her classroom where students felt comfortable and safe and wanted to thrive, and she was a fierce advocate on their behalf.

Franks obtained her Bachelor of Science degree at Stephen F. Austin State University and obtained a Masters of Arts in Elementary Education from the University of Alaska Southeast in Juneau. Frank also spent nine months in the Republic of Georgia while volunteering with the Peace Corps.

A memorial service will be held for Franks on Oct. 26 at 3 p.m. at Austin Heights Baptist Church on 2806 Appleby Sand Road and a visitation will take place at 1:30 p.m. before the service.