Greece teacher killed in crash days after school starts

A teacher in the Greece Central School District was killed in a vehicle crash on Friday, according to a statement released by the school district on Saturday.

Jillian Branciforte, an English as a New Language teacher at Greece Olympia, died in the crash just two days after the first day of school at Greece Olympia.

"This loss affects not only Olympia but also the entire district, as Jillian's influence extended across multiple schools," said Laurel Heiden, communications director for the district.

The district did not provide additional details about the accident and has requested privacy for the school community during this difficult time.

Branciforte's LinkedIn profile indicates that she graduated from Hilton High School, earned her Bachelor's degree in Spanish from St. John Fisher University, and completed her Master's in Education at Nazareth College.

The Hilton Central School District posted on Facebook to express their condolences.

"The entire Hilton community is mourning the loss of 2013 Hilton graduate Jillian Branciforte," the post stated. "Our sincerest condolences to all who knew and loved her."

Many who knew Branciforte shared their grief and affection for her in the comments section of the post.

Alexandra Braggins Martin wrote, "My heart just sank. Jill was one of my best friends in high school. This is the biggest tragedy. I am sending all of my love to her family and friends. A beautiful soul was taken far too soon. There are no other words."

Amy Gallton added, "She was one of a kind. Sending love and prayers to all who love her."

Students also expressed their sadness on Facebook, with one writing, "R.I.P Ms. Branciforte, you will be missed."

The Greece school district said its Trauma, Illness, and Grief Team will be available to support students and staff in the coming days.

—Madison Scott is a journalist with the Democrat and Chronicle who edited our Weld Street Project and also did reporting for it. She has an interest in how the system helps or doesn't help families with missing loved ones. She can be reached at [email protected].

This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Jillian Branciforte, a teacher in Greece NY, killed in crash