Feb. 22, 2021
Dear Hickory Hills families:
We received incredibly sad news that one of our middle school students has died unexpectedly. We extend our heartfelt sympathy to our student’s family, friends, and all those who knew and loved him. This is a loss for our entire school community. As we grieve together, we also respect the family's privacy during this difficult time.
This information is being shared with all middle school students during first period today. Please be aware that our students may react to this news with a variety of emotions, concerns or questions. As we help our students and staff journey through grief, we will offer support services in the following ways:
- A crisis intervention team, comprised of trained counseling professionals, is onsite today to help students and staff cope with the grief they experience as they learn about this situation.
- For students enrolled in the Virtual Learning Option, these counselors will also be a resource. Virtual students may visit Hickory Hills, check in at the main office during the school day, and be escorted to see a counselor.
- The crisis intervention team will be available to students and staff as long as they are needed.
I know that you will also want to support your child at home, so I have included a link to information that may be helpful. It includes tips for talking with students about difficult topics, including loss.
The Hickory Hills team is here for you and our child. Please let me know if we may provide other support during this difficult time.
