Rotherham councillors honour headteacher Rachael Booth with minute’s silence
Mayor Councillor Haroon Rashid spoke of Mrs Booth’s “very sad and sudden death” and offered condolences to her family and friends.
Rotherham councillors observed a minute’s silence in memory of headteacher Rachael Booth following her sudden death last month.
Tributes were paid to the head of The Willows School in Thurcroft at a full council meeting on Wednesday, November 4.
Mrs Booth died on October 20, a few days after suffering a heart attack at the special school.
Opening the meeting, Mayor Councillor Haroon Rashid spoke of her “very sad and sudden death” and offered condolences to her family and friends.
Council leader Chris Read also paid tribute, acknowledging the impact of her death on the school community.
“We know that all those involved, especially the children and families of the school, have been deeply shocked and affected by that,” Councillor Read said.
“Our best wishes to them.”
The Willows temporarily closed following Mrs Booth’s death and reopened on Monday, November 2.
It will close again on Thursday, November 12, so staff can attend her funeral.
Becky Allard has been appointed executive headteacher, supported by Charlotte Stewart as head of school.
Nexus Multi Academy Trust, which runs The Willows, said the arrangements were intended to provide stability for pupils and staff during an exceptionally difficult time.
Mrs Booth’s husband Andrew has also launched a fundraiser to support the school she loved, with a target of £7,500.