Franklin High School To Memorialize Student Who Died In Gym Class

FRANKLIN, NJ — Franklin High School is looking for ways to "thoughtfully honor" a 14-year-old freshman's memory after he died during gym class on Tuesday.

Principal Frank Chmiel sent a letter to parents regarding the loss of the young ninth grader.

"Words cannot adequately describe the deep sadness that we feel because of the loss of one of our young Warriors," Chmiel wrote. "Nothing truly prepares any of us as parents, educators and students to deal with such an unexpected tragedy."

The student reportedly collapsed and was unresponsive while on the field at the high school at 9:10 a.m. on May 8 during a physical education class, Franklin Township School District spokeswoman Mary L. Clark said.

CPR was performed by staff and he was taken to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, New Brunswick by ambulance. He was pronounced at approximately 11:15 a.m., according to Clark. (See Related: Franklin Freshman, 14, Dies During Gym Class)

Grief counseling is being offered to all students, faculty and staff with trained professionals ready to help throughout the day.

The district is currently discussing ways to honor the student's memory.

"We are talking as a learning community, considering what professionals would recommend as fitting to memorialize our Warrior while lifting the spirits of all and without causing more sadness," Chmiel said. "Our process also involves including the wishes of our student's family, wonderful people who are going through one of the most heartrending times imaginable."

More information about a memorial will be released by Chmiel at a later time.

(Image via Google Maps: Franklin High School)

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