Brooklyn Tech Mourns Sudden Death Of Assistant Principal

FORT GREENE – Brooklyn Tech faculty and students are in mourning this week following the sudden death of their popular Assistant Vice Principal, Paul Hoftyzer, on Monday, February 4.

The 44-year-old Hoftyzer, or “Hofty” as he was affectionately known, worked at the specialized high school for more than 20 years, first as a chemistry teacher then Assistant Principal, according to News 12. Hoftyzer was at the Brooklyn Tech Alumni Achievement Award ceremony Monday evening when he became ill and later passed away.

“We are heartbroken to report that Paul Hoftyzer, Brooklyn Tech Assistant Principal of Health & Safety, and a beloved educator, coach, mentor, and colleague, passed away suddenly this evening surrounded by members of the Brooklyn Tech community,” a message posted on Monday to the Brooklyn Tech Alumni Facebook page reads.

“Mr. Hoftyzer served the Tech community officially for over twenty-two years as a chemistry teacher, programming chair, coach, and assistant principal,” a letter from Brooklyn Tech’s Acting Principal David Newman states. “Paul’s contributions to the Tech community far exceed that of the titles he has accumulated; he dedicated his heart and soul to this school, and in turn he is a big part of the school’s heart and soul.”

The Brooklyn Tech Alumni Facebook page notes that Hoftyzer’s father, Peter, was a Brooklyn Tech alum and taught Architecture there for 35 years. His sister, Linda, also an alum, teaches math at the high school.

Counsellors were on hand for staff and students this week while classes remained in session.

A GoFundMe campaign was set up to help support Hoftyzer’s wife and two children. More than $46,000 has already been raised of its $50,000 goal.

Brooklyn Tech will host a memorial service honoring Paul Hoftyzer at the high school (29 Fort Greene Place) on Thursday, February 14 from 4:15pm to 6:15pm. Click here for more information.