Kokomo High School teacher dies during school trip to China

KOKOMO, Ind. (WISH) – A teacher for Kokomo schools passed away this week while on a school trip to China, according to superintendent Dr. Jeff Hauswald.

Melanie Peoples a teacher at Kokomo High School died of natural causes in her sleep. She was chaperoning students on a spring break trip. The students were still in China as of Wednesday.

Peoples was an English teacher in the International Baccalaureate and has been with the school for four years. Before coming to Kokomo High School she was a teacher at Maple Crest Middle School for 14 years.

“(Ms. Peoples) is an absolutely impactful teacher and wonderful person who impacted countless students. She will be missed,” said Hauswald.

Hauswald said other chaperons and a counselor are with the students. Counselors will also be available when students return to class on April 11.