Heritage High School lost a devoted educator on Feb. 22 as Mark McKenna passed away at age 62.

McKenna, who taught family and consumer sciences, died “due to a suspected medical issue,” according to a letter sent to parents by Principal Stacey Riendeau.

McKenna's cause of death was not immediately available, but Riendeau wrote that Heritage staff had been in contact with his family.

School was dismissed at 1 p.m. on Feb. 22 to provide counseling and support services, the letter reads in part.

McKenna taught at the school since 2008, where he primarily taught family and consumer science and culinary arts in the practical arts department. For the last several years, he was the sponsor for the school's chapter of Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA).

“Please take care of yourself, our students and those most impacted by this tragedy,” Riendeau wrote. “The one thing I know for sure in these difficult times is that we are truly better together.”