By Kyle Coppola
Beloved Umatilla High School Teacher Ben Nash Dies
Umatilla High School educator, coach and mentor Ben Nash, who influenced thousands of students over more than two decades in Lake County, has died suddenly.
School officials announced Nash’s passing on Facebook this afternoon, describing him as “the heart of our AICE program” and an essential member of the Umatilla High School Bulldog family.
“Throughout his 22 years in Lake County, he helped change the lives of thousands as a teacher, coach, mentor and friend,” the post reads. “His impact on our school and our students will not be forgotten.”
Colleagues and former students remembered Nash as much for his compassion and encouragement as for his work in the classroom, describing him as a mentor, friend and unwavering source of support.
Umatilla High Principal Brent Frazier, who met Nash nearly 22 years ago when both were newly hired at Carver Middle School, shared an emotional tribute.
“I don’t post often about my feelings but my heart is broken today,” Frazier says. “Twenty-two years ago almost to the day I met Ben Nash at Launch into Lake … Since that day he has been my best friend, brother and my biggest cheerleader. I love you my friend! You will be missed more than words can express.”
Earlier this year, Nash reflected on the success of the AICE program he led.
“Positivity in the program is off the charts,” he said. “There is nothing better than the reaction of students after they realize they have earned the Bright Futures Scholarship … or after they realize they have earned a college credit by passing a test they never thought they could. The smiles are amazing and worth every single second spent on these students.”
Umatilla High School and University of Florida graduate Gracelyn Roach credited Nash and other AICE teachers with helping her succeed.
“In truth, I wouldn’t have done as well on my tests if it weren’t for Ben Nash and all my teachers,” Gracelyn says. “All my AICE teachers went the extra mile to answer questions, especially Mr. Nash, to create study guides and prepare us for the stress of almost a month of tests. As a group, we would never have succeeded without Mr. Nash and everyone who believed in the program.”
The school extended its condolences to Nash’s wife and family.
“Our thoughts and sincerest condolences are with his wife, Melissa, and his family during this time,” a statement reads. “Thank you, Mr. Nash for a life well lived. Your legacy will live on in the lives you have touched!
Photos by: Umatilla High School
Kyle Coppola was born in Newton, Massachusetts and received his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Communications from Curry College in 2016. After traveling to Florida on a family vacation, he decided he could not get enough of the warm weather and made the move from snowy Massachusetts to central Florida 8 years ago.
For the last decade Kyle has gained valuable experience in social media content creation, marketing and sales, writing, video production, sports announcing and even broadcasting for local radio stations, such as FM 102.9 in The Villages and FM 91.5 in Massachusetts. Every year he volunteers at The Villages Charter High School as a play-by-play sports announcer for the football games as well as a public address announcer for the basketball games, including the annual Battle at The Villages Tournament.
Outside the office Kyle is a husband and father to two beautiful girls along with their cat. In his spare time he likes to spend time with his family, travel, play golf and swim. He is also a huge sports junkie and even bigger motorsports fan and loves to attend racing events when he can.
