They call us the Cuda Nation; Cuda Team, Cuda Country, Cuda Spirit… a Cuda family. But this Cuda family of New Smyrna Beach High School is down one team player tonight. Frederick Fernandez, age 55, also known as Mr. Fernandez, a math teacher, has died.
Courtesy photo / Frederick Fernandez was a popular math teacher at New Smyrna Beach High School and an avid surfer who lost his life in the waves Saturday.
He was an experienced surfer and like many are saying, the current waves are a surfer’s dreams right now. He died around noon today, Saturday, Aug. 27. He was reportedly surfing when water a wave knocked him over and he suffered head trauma; however it is unclear if he died result of hitting his head on the board or the sea bottom or if there was some kind of medical issue. He was pulled from the water unconscious and died at Bert Fish Medical Center.
Mr. (Jim) Tager, the principle of New Smyrna Beach High sent a recorded call to all the students, faculty and staff to tell them about this tragedy. Putting aside the huge loss this community has to endure, it is the worst kind of learning opportunity.
There have been so many warnings about rip currents, strong waves and just plain old bad weather as after affects of Hurricane Irene. But determined surfers, swimmers and thrill seekers and continuing to risk their lives for fun. This tragedy serves as an example that you should listen to the professionals when they warn you of harsh weather conditions.
In the approximate 12 hours following Mr. Fernandez’s death, various news reporters have been covering this story. But I don’t think it can be told quite like it is by his students; the people he impacted each and every day.
In the approximate 12 hours following Mr. Fernandez’s death, various news reporters have been covering this story. But I don’t think it can be told quite like it is by his students; the people he impacted each and every day.
Although I did not have Mr. Fernandez, I heard plenty about him. I walked past him enough in the hall to recognize the smile he gave to everyone; even people he doesn’t know, he just wanted them to be happy. He has taught at the school I attend for years, but more importantly, he has touched the hearts of those around me.
Already, a Facebook event has been created in his honor encouraging people remember him for the great man that he was. http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=206381749423722#!/event.php?eid=206381749423722.
My favorite idea that I’ve seen on there, is at our first pep rally, we do a Cuda wave to ride him out on. Already, there are almost 600 people, “attending” this event and the number is growing. Past and “current” students are posting on the wall "Remember Mr. Fernandez" describing his funny and creative ways he taught them. But even more heart-breaking is the posts from his fellow teachers. All posts describe what a great teacher he was and that he was dedicated to others’ success.
All of Cuda Nation is in mourning of this death. It truly puts things in perspective. He leaves behind a wife and three kids; and a school that will never have the presence of a soul quite like his. “We talk about forever when we’ve only got today.” May he rest in peace. Once a Cuda, ALWAYS a Cuda.
All of Cuda Nation is in mourning of this death. It truly puts things in perspective. He leaves behind a wife and three kids; and a school that will never have the presence of a soul quite like his. “We talk about forever when we’ve only got today.” May he rest in peace. Once a Cuda, ALWAYS a Cuda.
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