The beloved teacher from Shalom College Bundaberg dies suddenly at his school desk as three colleagues desperately tried to save him
A religious studies teacher died after collapsing at his desk despite the efforts of three of his colleagues to save him.
James Kiernan collapsed at his desk at Shalom College in Bundaberg, Queensland, after arriving around 7.30am on Tuesday.
Colleagues immediately performed CPR on the father-of-three before paramedics arrived, but they were unable to revive him.
Director Dan McMahon confirmed Mr Kiernan’s death at 10.50am, with his wife having arrived at his side as he died.
A Queensland Police spokesperson confirmed Mr Kiernan, who was in his 50s, died of a heart attack.
Religious studies teacher James Kiernan died of a heart attack Tuesday morning shortly after arriving at work
Mr Kiernan worked at Shalom College (pictured) in Bundaberg, Queensland, since 2021 and was fondly remembered by the school’s principal Dan McMahon
Friends and relations are now remembering the ‘much loved’ teacher who has worked at the college since 2021.
“James loved and lived his Catholic faith,” Mr McMahon said told the Courier Post.
“James has been a much-loved staff member at Shalom since 2021 and may well have taught more students here than the vast majority of teachers as he had the full teaching role of Religious Education.”
Friend and colleague Dale O’Connell paid his tribute on social media.
“James Kiernan was one of the most genuine guys I have ever had the pleasure of calling a friend and colleague,” Mr. O’Connell wrote.
“The world has lost one of its good guys.”
Shalom College now offers counseling services to students and staff.
Mr Kiernan will be survived by his wife Peta, three daughters and several grandchildren.