Weld Re-8 Community,
It is with a heavy heart that I inform you of the death of one of our students. This past Friday evening, a Fort Lupton High School student passed away.
Members of our Mental Health Team met yesterday to plan for our return on November 27, 2023. They will be present at the High School and available in all buildings for student and staff support to help deal with feelings and emotions.
Please realize that reactions to death (and stress) are varied and can depend upon such factors as age, personality, previous losses, and relationship to the victim. If you feel your child has been affected by this situation, you can assist your child by doing the following:
1. Take time to listen to and talk with your child about what has happened.
2. Reassure your child that you will be available to help him/her through this difficult time.
3. Help your child verbalize some of the feelings he/she might be feeling but is unable to express.
4. Reassure your child that you will do all you can to keep him/her safe. Providing specific examples may help to reduce some of the fear and anxiety.
5. Discuss some of the things you and your child might do to express your concern for the victim’s family. If you decide to allow your child to attend the funeral and/or memorial service, it is best that you or some responsible person accompany your child.
Any changes in your child’s behavior, which seem extreme and/or do not seem to go away, should be brought to the attention of the school guidance counselor or someone in the community of your choosing who can assist your child. We will continue to have staff available after the break at each school to assist our students in coping with this loss.
I am including some resources for students and families to use during this time.
Sincerely,
Alan J. Kaylor