Dobbs Ferry Schools Respond to Valedictorian's Death

Dear Dobbs Ferry Community Member,

We are terribly saddened to tell you of the untimely death of one of our Class of 2012 graduates, Martha Corey-Ochoa. A brilliant student and last year’s valedictorian, Martha had just begun her freshman year at Columbia University. 

Martha went through elementary school, middle school and high school in the Dobbs Ferry School District.  At Dobbs Ferry High School she maintained a challenging academic schedule taking four IB classes and AP Calculus in her senior year, but still managing to find the time to work on independent projects such as her novel (a political romance set in the 17th century) as well as compose music (a sonata for violin).

She was a talented musician and played the violin since 3rd grade and was also a member of the Dobbs Ferry High School Orchestra. She was selected to participate in the prestigious Westchester Youth Orchestra and All-County Intermediate Orchestra. She was also a member of the Spanish National Honor Society and a National Merit Scholarship Finalist. Martha was a gifted writer.

In an interview for the District Newsletter last fall she said, “Music inspires my writing. I love analyzing music and literature and making connections between disciplines.” 

I know that you join me in expressing our heartfelt condolences to Martha’s family.

We have counselors available for students and staff starting tomorrow and throughout next week to help our school community deal with this sad loss. Members of our Crisis Response Team are available to meet with students individually and in groups over the coming days. Please remember that we are all here for you.

Warmly,

Lisa Brady Ed.D, Superintendent