Statement on the passing of Rana Zoe Mungin

Our entire Ascend community mourns the passing of Ascend teacher Rana Zoe Mungin, who died yesterday after a difficult struggle with COVID-19. We extend our deepest sympathy to all of Zoe’s family and loved ones.

Zoe was a one-of-a-kind educator. She had a transformational impact on her students and colleagues at Bushwick Ascend Middle School. Her principal Miatta Massaley describes what made Zoe such a special person: “Students and staff alike gravitated toward her witty personality. You could always find a group of people in the social studies room talking with Zoe after school. It was almost impossible to stop into her room for a quick question because she had a way of making people want to talk to her for hours.”

While we cannot gather together physically to mourn Zoe’s death, we will find ways as a school community in the coming days and weeks to honor Zoe’s tremendous life and contributions. To help in the grieving process, counselors are available to any member of our Ascend community.

Press inquiries can be directed to hannah.haves@ascendlearning.org.