Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – A tragic incident unfolded in the Grays Ferry neighborhood of Philadelphia on Sunday, resulting in the loss of a special education compliance monitor and teacher at Olney High School. The authorities believe it was a murder-suicide that claimed the lives of Ondria Glaze, 36, and Rick Harper, 42.
Upon responding to a call at an apartment on South 30th Street, officers found Glaze with a fatal gunshot wound to the face, while Harper was discovered with a self-inflicted gunshot wound to his head. Law enforcement officials have determined that Harper shot Glaze before turning the gun on himself.
The tragic event has deeply affected the Olney High School community, with principal Michael Roth expressing his heartfelt condolences to Glaze’s family, students, colleagues, and the entire school community in a letter to parents. Describing Glaze as a “long-time beloved Olney teacher” who embodied the spirit of “Olney Love,” Roth announced the establishment of a scholarship in her honor, named “The Ondria Glaze, Olney Love Scholarship.”
The scholarship aims to commemorate Glaze’s legacy by awarding it annually to a graduate who exemplifies the values of Olney Love through their actions. This initiative serves as a tribute to Glaze’s dedication to her students and colleagues, leaving a lasting impact on all those she touched within the school community.
The loss of Glaze, a respected educator and advocate for special education, has left a void in the hearts of those who knew her. The tragic circumstances of her passing have underscored the importance of mental health awareness and support within school communities, emphasizing the need for resources to address the challenges faced by individuals dealing with emotional distress.
As the Olney High School community mourns the loss of Glaze, they are reminded of the profound impact she had on those around her and the legacy of compassion and dedication she leaves behind. The memory of Glaze will live on through the scholarship established in her honor, honoring her commitment to fostering a culture of support, empathy, and understanding within the school community.