ANGLETON, Texas – An Angleton Independent School District teacher drowned Sunday while fishing near Freeport, officials said.
J.R. Wagner was a coach and teacher at Angleton Junior High School.
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Officials said Wagner was fishing alone in Christmas Bay when he died.
Angelton ISD Superintendent Pat Montgomery sent the following message to families of students:
"It is with a heavy heart that I share with you that one of our staff members, J.R. Wagner, died in a drowning accident yesterday.
"J.R. was a Wildcat through and through. He graduated from Angleton High School in 2004 and returned to AISD to teach and coach at Angleton Junior High School, and what his students and colleagues will remember about him is his warm smile and caring heart.
"We are so sad at the loss of one of our AISD family members. At this time, our concern is helping J.R.’s family and our students and staff deal with the loss of a loved one.
"We know that anytime a school district employee passes away, many people are affected, including our students. Parents, if you have concerns about the effect that this may have on your child, please contact your child’s principal or counselor.
"I know you join us in sending our condolences to J.R.’s family and friends. As we learn about the details of his funeral, we will share that information with you if possible.
"Thank you for your understanding during this time as we mourn the loss of one of our own, and please keep J.R.’s family, friends, colleagues and students in your thoughts."