SALADO, Texas — Salado ISD is mourning the tragic loss of second-grade teacher Kimberly Kosh-Ruiz. Known as "Kim" to the community, she was killed in a car crash on Wednesday evening.
Thomas Arnold Elementary School's Kosh-Ruiz, a Killeen resident, was rushed to Baylor Scott & White emergency room for treatment, but died because of her injuries.
Kosh-Ruiz taught kindergarten and second grade at the elementary school for five years. Salado ISD Superintendent Michael Novotny said her death is a loss not only for the school district but also for the community.
"She loved her kids, like every great teacher does, and she is always looking out for the best for her kids and helping them learn academically," Novotny continues. "Every aspect of their lives trying to make them better."
The crash happened on Thomas Arnold Road at 5:18 p.m. The driver, an unidentified 26-year-old male, was taken to the hospital and did not suffer life-threatening injuries.
Her nine-year-old son was in the car, and he is currently recovering in the hospital.
Salado ISD asks the community to keep the Kosh-Ruiz family in their thoughts and prayers. Tomorrow, the elementary school will offer counseling services to students or employees who want to discuss their feelings or memories of Kosh-Ruiz.
According to Texas DPS, the crash investigation is still active and open. They would like to remind drivers to limit their distractions while driving, as this greatly reduces the chances of experiencing a car crash.
A GoFundMe has also been created for the Kosh-Ruiz family, which is already over a fifth of the way to its $25,000 goal. Click here to access the page.