The Spaulding High School community is reeling from the heartbreaking news of the sudden and tragic passing of Sarah Gott, a cherished health teacher, mentor, and friend. Sarah passed away unexpectedly in her sleep earlier this week, sending shockwaves through the halls of the school and the wider Rochester community. Her death has left a void that words can scarcely capture.
Sarah Gott was more than a teacher—she was a beacon of empathy, enthusiasm, and encouragement. Her classroom was a safe haven for students navigating not only academic challenges but also the complex emotional terrain of adolescence. With her trademark wit, vibrant personality, and deep compassion, Sarah made health education not just informative, but empowering. Her lessons extended beyond textbooks, touching on real-life issues—mental wellness, self-care, consent, nutrition, healthy relationships—with authenticity and heart.
She had a gift for making students feel seen, heard, and valued. Whether it was through a quick chat in the hallway, a note of encouragement, or staying after class to lend an ear, Sarah always made time for others. Colleagues often described her as the heartbeat of the faculty—someone who brought warmth, laughter, and light to every meeting, event, and classroom she touched.
“She had this incredible way of making every student feel like they mattered,” said one fellow teacher. “Sarah wasn’t just teaching health. She was living it. She was teaching students how to love themselves, how to care for each other, and how to move through the world with kindness.”
Students echoed similar sentiments, remembering Sarah as someone who never failed to check in with them, celebrate their successes, or offer reassurance when things felt tough. One senior described her as “the kind of teacher who changed your life without even knowing it.”
Born and raised in New Hampshire, Sarah Gott was a proud graduate of the University of New Hampshire, where she earned her degree in health education. She returned to her home state to pursue her passion for teaching and soon became a vital part of the Spaulding High School family. Over the years, she spearheaded numerous health awareness initiatives, including mental health workshops, anti-bullying campaigns, and student-led wellness programs.
Outside of school, Sarah was deeply committed to community service and advocacy work. She volunteered regularly with local youth organizations, organized drives for school supplies and hygiene kits, and was a fierce supporter of inclusive education. Her heart for others extended far beyond the classroom walls.
The cause of her sudden passing has been attributed to natural causes, and she is believed to have passed peacefully in her sleep. Though there were no warning signs, her unexpected departure has left those closest to her devastated and in disbelief.
Principal Rebecca Lang issued a heartfelt statement on behalf of Spaulding High School:
“Our hearts are broken. Sarah was a beloved member of our faculty, a bright light in our school, and a true role model for both students and staff. She brought energy, compassion, and joy to everything she did. Her absence will be deeply felt, but her legacy will live on in the countless lives she touched.”
Grief counselors have been made available to students and staff in the wake of this tragedy, as the school community begins the difficult process of mourning and healing.
A candlelight vigil is being organized by students and faculty to honor Sarah’s life and contributions. Details of the event, which will be held on the Spaulding High School campus, are expected to be announced in the coming days. The vigil will serve as a space for remembrance, reflection, and shared sorrow—a testament to the many lives Sarah impacted in her too-short time on this earth.
Sarah Gott is survived by her loving parents, two sisters, a circle of devoted friends, and hundreds of current and former students who carry forward the values she so graciously modeled.
In a statement released by her family, they wrote:
“Sarah was a light in this world—joyful, compassionate, and always thinking of others. Her love for teaching was matched only by her love for her family and her students. We are devastated by this loss but comforted by the outpouring of love and memories being shared. Please honor her by living with kindness, purpose, and courage—the way she did every single day.”
As Rochester and the Spaulding High School family mourn the loss of this extraordinary educator, one thing remains clear: Sarah Gott’s legacy of kindness, courage, and care will endure in every heart she touched, every life she uplifted, and every student she believed in. Her memory will continue to inspire—today, tomorrow, and always.
