Family Fears Deerfield High Grad Taken Hostage In Israel: Principal

DEERFIELD, IL — Natalie Raanan, a 2023 graduate of Deerfield High School, is among the Americans missing in Israel following an attack by the Palestinian militant group Hamas over the weekend. Her mother, Judith, is also reportedly missing.

Deerfield High School Principal Dr. Kathryn Anderson sent out an email to the school community with the news Monday night, saying that Raanan, 18, a resident of Evanston, was visiting family in Israel.

"Her family fears that she has been taken hostage by Hamas," Anderson said. "Unfortunately, we have no additional information at this time. We keep Natalie and her family in our hearts, along with all the innocent lives lost, wounded and impacted by the terrorist attack."

The mother and daughter were visiting relatives in Nahal Oz Saturday when it is believed they were captured from a kibbutz near the Gaza Strip.

RELATED: Evanston Mother, Daughter Feared Captured By Hamas On Visit To Israel

Anderson reminded students that counseling services are available to all students for additional support "during this difficult time." Students in crisis are encouraged to visit the counseling center for immediate support. If a school counselor is not available, a school mental health professional will be available. Parents can also call the general counseling number at 224-632-3040 on behalf of students and request a counseling staff member.

"While our counselor team works with students on academic and post-high school planning, school counselors are also trained mental health professionals who are here to support students with their social-emotional needs," Anderson said. "Students can access their school counselor by emailing them, scheduling an appointment, or visiting their counselor during drop-in hours."

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