Dear Schodack CSD Families,

 

It is with deep sadness and regret that we inform you of the passing of one of our students in the Jr./Sr. High School. As you can imagine, our initial reaction was one of shock and disbelief. All of us are still struggling to make sense of this tragedy and the sudden loss of such a bright young woman.

This morning, Maple Hill Jr./Sr. High School will open on a two-hour delay to mobilize our crisis team to speak with faculty and staff about this tragedy and prepare them for the arrival of students. Grades K-5 will operate on a normal schedule.

Please know that the Schodack Central School District has an incredible support system and we will be offering counseling for our students and staff members throughout the week. This support will come in many different forms and may look different than it normally would. Due to the global pandemic, we are not able to gather in large groups and many students who need assistance may be learning in a virtual setting today.

We realize that it may be difficult for your children to cope with losing their friend and classmate. Everyone reacts to tragedy in different ways, therefore, talking to your children is the best way to know how they are feeling. If you believe your child may need help, do not hesitate to reach out to one of our counselors.

Counselors will be available to support both in-person and remote students. In-person students needing to speak with an adult should contact or see any of our school counselors. We will follow all health and safety protocols while providing a safe space to discuss this tragedy. Families with remote students should call the school at 518-732-7701 and leave a phone number. Counselors will be available to call back any student or parent who may need or want help or any type of assistance surrounding this loss. We encourage families to make use of our resources.

We have gathered the following resources that may be useful to you in speaking with your child about this tragedy:

Words cannot express our grief, pain, and shock at this time. We are saddened by this sudden and shocking loss to our school community and will make every effort to help you and your child together.