07/14/2025
With Heavy Hearts, We Mourn
The Sayles School community is deeply heartbroken by the tragic news of a devastating multi-vehicle crash that occurred yesterday involving two former Sayles teachers, Mrs. Jennifer Leinbach (formerly Maxwell) and Mrs. Jennifer Loura.
We are incredibly saddened to share that Mrs. Leinbach lost her life in the accident. During her time at Sayles, she was not only a dedicated and inspiring teacher, but also the founder of our school’s very first volleyball team—a program that continues to thrive today thanks to the foundation she built. Her energy, warmth, and deep commitment to her students left a legacy that is still felt in our school community.
Mrs. Loura, who was eight months pregnant at the time of the crash, sustained serious injuries. In an even deeper heartbreak, her unborn baby did not survive. Our hearts are with her and her family as they endure this unimaginable loss and begin the long journey of healing.
Though both Mrs. Leinbach and Mrs. Loura had moved on from Sayles School in recent years—Jennifer Leinbach to Salem Elementary and Jennifer Loura to Lebanon Elementary—they remained an important part of our Mustang family. Their time at Sayles touched countless lives and helped shape the caring, student-centered community we are today.
We extend our deepest sympathy and love to their families, friends, colleagues, and the many students they taught over the years. We know this loss will be felt not only at Sayles, but also in the Salem and Lebanon school communities.
Please keep the Leinbach and Loura families in your thoughts. We will share opportunities for the community to come together in support in the days ahead.
