Counselors Available In Jersey City Schools After 2 Student Deaths

JERSEY CITY, NJ — Counselors were made available in the Jersey City public schools this week after two students passed away, officials said.

One student attended PS 28, Christa McAuliffe School, a K-8 school.

Councilman Jake Ephros posted on Wednesday, "I am heartbroken to hear of the loss of a P.S. 28 student, and I am wishing peace and strength for her family in this moment. I truly cannot imagine how painful this must be. P.S. 28 is making guidance counselors available for support to the student community there, as well. The death of a child is a tragedy, and remember that those around us may all grieve in different ways. Rest in peace."

State Sen. Angela McKnight wrote, "My prayers and more prayers are extended to the P.S. 28 family for the loss of your precious sweetheart over the weekend. I am also sending my prayers to fellow students, friends, faculty, staff, and the community during this devastating time. May you be surrounded by love and hugs."

Several residents posted to ask what the district might do to improve students' emotional health in an era of social media.

Former Councilman Yusuf Saleh wrote, "I offer my sincerest condolences to the PS 28 family on the devastating loss of their beloved daughter over the weekend. No parent should ever have to endure the pain of losing a child. This tragedy is heartbreaking, and it serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting young people and addressing bullying wherever it occurs. As a PS 28 alum, this loss hits especially close to home. I pray that the family, friends, classmates, and the entire PS 28 community have the love, strength, and support they need to navigate the difficult road ahead."

Superintendent of Schools Norma Fernandez issued a letter late Wednesday regarding that loss, and a recent loss of a high school student. Fernandez told Patch the other student was a sophomore at Snyder High School.

"We have mobilized our crisis response teams, and professional support is available for any student or staff member who may need it," she wrote.

She also referred to an accident Wednesday morning in which a truck hit a woman and two children who were heading to school (that story is here). The students involved attend P.S. 15 and P.S. 41, she said.

Her letter is below.

Parents can seek mental health help for their teens and children using the Performcare line, regardless of the type of insurance they have, by calling 1-877-652-7624. If you or someone you know is struggling or in a crisis, help is available 24/7. Call or text 988. You can also call 911 in an emergency, or use New Jersey's mental health referral service.