Steven Zaslofsky’s final proud moment as Shelby Academy’s Headmaster came May 22 handing out diplomas to his first class of seniors.

Zaslofsky, or Mr. Z as students affectionately knew him, passed away at his home Monday.

“It is with a great deal of sadness that we report the sudden death of our headmaster, Mr. Steven Zaslofsky,” said board member Ken Flowers in a written statement.

According to the school, Zaslofsky suffered a heart attack Monday afternoon. Paramedics were called to the scene but were unable to revive him.

Zaslofsky took over the headmaster position in August 2008 with the intent of helping the school grow.

“Zaslofsky took over Shelby Academy during a difficult time in the school’s history and provided a strong academic leadership for the school,” Flowers said. “(He) had a large role in steering the school toward a bright new future.”

Zaslofsky and his wife Barbara had wanted to move to Shelby County from Arizona to be closer to their daughter and grandson.

Zaslofsky is originally from New York and has been an educator since 1971. Prior to coming to Shelby Academy, he served as the athletics director at St. Michael’s Day School in Tucson, Ariz.

Zaslofsky will be buried back in Arizona.