Ionia Public Schools has identified the educator found dead on campus on Dec. 3 as Douglas R. Welch High School Principal Jason Little.

IPS Superintendent Ben Gurk confirmed the identity via email Dec. 6.

“(Little) leaves behind a remarkable legacy, having positively impacted countless students, colleagues and members of our community,” Gurk wrote in a statement. “I personally was blessed to be able to count on him as a trusted friend.”

The district closed on Dec. 8 so families could attend Little’s visitation and funeral. The district has made grief counselors available to support students and staff.

“While each member of our school community grieves in their own unique way, we'll continue to support each other and move forward together in a manner that honors (his) legacy,” Gurk w

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