Remembering Ms. Tonya Justice

By Richard Hall | Posted: Wednesday September 10, 2025

It is with great sadness that we again acknowledge the passing of Ms. Tonya Justice, a cherished member of our teaching staff. Her loss is deeply felt by our entire school community.

Ms. Justice joined Otago Boys' High in 2016, bringing her vast experience as an ESOL teacher. She was a true lifelong learner, a quality she modeled for her students by earning a second master's degree in Applied Linguistics during her time here.

As a teacher in our English as a Second Language (ESOL) department, Ms. Justice was often the first friendly face for students new to our school and to New Zealand. She was a master teacher who had the patience, kindness, and sense of humor needed to help her students succeed. She quickly became an invaluable source of support, not just for her students but also for their families and her colleagues.

Ms. Justice also volunteered to serve as a vital link between the school and students' families, and she often helped them connect with outside support agencies. Many students owe their successful transition into our school and their continued progress in their education directly to her dedicated care.

A kind, caring, and humorous person, Ms. Justice was well-respected throughout our school. This week we have been grateful to receive messages and flowers from a number of people, and the book of memories established in the foyer is full of kind memories for a special person.

While her absence was a profound loss, her positive impact and legacy will be remembered by all who knew her.

Support services were made available for students who were affected by this news. Our guidance team led this effort and could be contacted by any student who needed help during the last week of this term, and beyond.