Iowa Department of Education Director Judy Jeffrey extends her deepest sympathy to the Aplington-Parkersburg School District community on the death of Ed Thomas.

"This is a school district that has suffered much in the last several months with the loss of its high school due to a tornado last spring and now the loss of a beloved teacher, coach, and mentor. The community's love and respect for Coach Thomas is a profound example of the impact a teacher and outstanding individual can have not only on students in a school, but an entire community. My thoughts are with the staff, students, and families of Aplington-Parkersburg."