CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – The school community at Burley Middle School and Albemarle County Public Schools are mourning the death of teacher Paul Regan over the weekend.

Regan, a seventh-grade teacher at Burley who previously worked at Henley Middle School, died unexpectedly over the weekend, according to an email Burley Principal William Schaffer sent to families Monday.

“He was well regarded by his students and staff throughout his career,” Schaffer’s email said. “Paul’s family shared that ‘his co-workers and students were what brought him the most joy. He loved teaching, he loved his co-workers, and he loved his students. He really, really enjoyed teaching.’ As much as he enjoyed teaching, his students enjoyed learning from him, and we know that he made a lasting impact on the lives of many of his students throughout his career.”

Counselors at Burley shared the news with students there Tuesday morning.

Schaffer’s email said that counseling support for students would be available at Burley.

ACPS spokesperson Jason Grant told Cville Right Now similar emails were sent to families of students at Henley and Western Albemarle High School, which the two middle schools feed into.

The investigation into Regan’s death is being handled by the Charlottesville Police Department. Chief of Police Michael Kochis told Cville Right Now the death is being investigated as a possible suicide and there were no signs of foul play. Kochis said his department is awaiting the results of the medical examiner’s report.

A social media post on the Burley PTO Facebook page Monday referenced the tragedy.

“During this difficult time, we stand together supporting our students, staff, families, and one another,” the post said. “Together in Heart. Together in Strength. One School. One Family. Please keep our entire Burley community and the Regan family in your thoughts.”