Poetry and art projects related to Martin Luther King Jr. hang on a wall in Scott Clark’s classroom at Laguna Niguel Elementary School.
The work is one of the last things put on the wall before Clark, 55, was hit by one of two cars Jan. 25 in Laguna Niguel. He died two weeks later.
For his former students, the thought of removing their connection to the past is not an option.
“He touched everybody’s lives,” said fifth-grade teacher Kristine Cuevas. “He touched these art projects. They’re still hanging until the last day of school.”
More than three months after his death, about a dozen teachers and staff, including Principal Michelle Moore, spoke in the teacher lounge about Clark’s time on campus, describing him as “caring,” “patient” and “peaceful.”
With tissue boxes on the table, Clark’s friends shared some of their favorite memories and what they missed most about him.
“He just took the time with everybody he met,” said first-grade teacher Melissa Washington. “He was never too busy. He was never too stressed.”
On Fridays, Washington’s first-grade class would meet with Clark’s fifth-graders as part of a mentor program. She said Clark brought “so much joy” to her class and never canceled an appearance.
“Every Friday is hard,” she said, holding back tears.
The investigation surrounding Clark’s accident is still under investigation, according to the Orange County Sheriff’s Department.
“Although pending for several months, investigations such as this one take time to thoroughly go through all of the evidence, interviews and statements,” OCSD spokesman Lane Lagaret said in an email.
Once the investigation is complete, Lagaret said, it is forwarded to the District Attorney’s office to determine if any charges are filed.
Many of Clark’s colleagues praised his ability to connect with them, whether it involved sports, dogs or the Canadian rock band Rush.
“He always seemed to find a niche with everybody at school,” said fourth-grade teacher Wendy Billman. “He found their interest and when he did, you got a huge smile from him.”
Linda Cardwell, a kindergarten teacher, said Clark, the school’s lone male teacher, fit in with everyone.
“For little kindergartners to look up at this tall man could be kind of overwhelming,” she said, “but he never seemed imposing to children at all. He seemed so approachable.”
The staff members said they miss Clark’s laugh, presence, and his vacuuming, among other things.
“He was an example of not ever giving up,” said fifth-grade teacher Kelly Heard. “The kids saw that and followed his lead.”
A remnant of Clark is still in plain sight.
Near the school’s entrance hangs a wood-framed photo of Clark after he won Teacher of the Year. Dressed in a brown suit and golden tie with hair combed to the side, Clark smiles and holds the award with both hands, his wedding ring producing a tiny shine.
