A longtime Mount Vernon School District educator known for her compassion and dedication to students has died.
Tammi Lee Porter died unexpectedly at her home on Saturday, March 21, according to her obituary. She was 56.
Porter spent 16 years working in the Mount Vernon School District, primarily supporting students with special needs and helping guide them through school and into adulthood.
She worked at several schools over the years, including Lincoln Elementary, Washington Elementary, Madison Elementary, and most recently Mount Vernon High School.
In her role, Porter helped conduct individualized education program (IEP) assessments for hundreds of students and regularly checked in with young adults transitioning out of high school to ensure they had the support they needed.
She was known for her ability to connect with students and make them feel seen and supported.
“Tammi spent 16 years working for Mount Vernon School District where she touched the hearts of many, supported and cheered on all her students,” reads her memorial.
Beyond the classroom, Porter was described as a devoted mother, wife, and soon-to-be grandmother.
She is survived by her husband, Andrew Porter, and her two daughters, Taylor and Katelyn, who she described as “beautiful, successful daughters” on her social media.
Porter enjoyed gardening, canning homemade jams, shopping, and spending quiet evenings at home with her family and her dog, Daisy, according to her obituary.
“Her smile and laugh were contagious and would brighten anyone’s day,” her memorial reads. “She had a way of making everyone feel comfortable and special in her life. She was and always will be loved by many.”
Former students, colleagues, and loved ones can share memories of Porter on her online memorial site here.
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