Deer Lakes Students and Families,

It is with great sadness that I must inform you about the tragic loss of one of our students. Earlier today, we learned Noah Latronica, who was about to enter first grade at Curtisville Primary Center, passed away.

Noah brought so much joy to us in the last year that he was in kindergarten. His kindness and outgoing personality made it easy for him to make friends with classmates. He stood out in class with his curiosity and readiness for every lesson and activity. His favorite place was the playground where he and his friends would play tag and enjoy the slides.

Members of our Crisis Response Team have been working with our school counselors and outside agencies to formulate a plan to help students and staff deal with their feelings and emotions. The district is making arrangements for onsite therapists to be available for staff and students. This information will be released via Skyward as soon as it becomes available. If someone you love needs to speak with someone immediately, the mental health page of our website has some excellent resources. If you’d prefer to speak to one of our dedicated staff members, you are encouraged to reach out to any of the following:

? Dr. Rachel Mariano, School District Psychologist: [email protected]

? Mrs. Jennifer Barnes, Elementary School Counselor, [email protected]

? Mrs. Angela Casile, Elementary School Counselor, [email protected]

? Ms. Jackie Jaros, Middle School Counselor: [email protected]

? Mrs. Tina Pascucci, High School Counselor: [email protected]

? Miss Taylor Austin, High School Counselor: [email protected]

? Mrs. Karen Radick, School District Mental Health Liaison: [email protected]

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:

? Take time to listen to and talk with your child about what has happened.

? Reassure your child that you will be available to help him/her through this difficult time.

? Help your child verbalize some of the feelings he/she might be feeling but is unable to express.

? 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.

? Discuss some of the things you and your child might do to express your concern for the child’s family.

? Remember that everyone grieves differently. There is no one proper way to grieve. We will continue to have resources available to assist our students in coping with this loss.

Thank you for your support and assistance.

Janell Logue-Belden, Ed.D

Superintendent of Schools

Deer Lakes School District