A popular and well-respected educator will be laid to rest in Union County Wednesday afternoon.
50 year old Meg Gatten, of Sturgis, died Friday at Vanderbilt Medical Center in Nashville, TN after a blood vessel in her brain burst and she suffered a stroke.
Union County Public Schools’ Superintendent Patricia Sheffer released a statement to parents on Monday via Facebook. She stated that they are profoundly saddened by the death of Gatten. She said Gatten was a long time teacher in the Union County School District and was an advocate for the Gifted and Talented program throughout Kentucky. Sheffer stated this is a great loss to the school community and it is sure to raise many emotions, concerns and questions for the entire school district, especially among the students who loved and cared for Meg so dearly.
Superintendent Sheffer went on to say the school district will make every effort to ensure that Meg’s legacy is honored in the days, weeks, months and years ahead. She added that Meg was one of the most stellar teachers she has had the privilege to work alongside.
She also provided a link that may be useful to parents in helping your child cope with this loss. You can find that link on the Union County Public School’s Facebook page, or WMSK’s Facebook page. In addition, Superintendent Sheffer said if you would like additional information, or need assistance, please contact the district’s Department of Special Projects and ask to speak to one of the School Psychologists by calling 270-389-2742.
Gatten was a board member of the Kentucky Association of Gifted Education and recently received the 2016 Kentucky Association for Gifted Education Service and Advocacy Award.
Funeral services for Meg Gatten will be held at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday at the Union County High School Auditorium. Visitation will be held Tuesday afternoon from 1:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Whitsell Funeral Home in Sturgis and after 10:00 a.m. Wednesday at the high school.
School officials indicate all Union County Schools and offices will be closed on Wednesday in memory of Meg Gatten. APPLES childcare will also be closed.
