After Sudden Death Of Student, Columbia High School In Maplewood Offers Counseling

MAPLEWOOD, NJ — The superintendent of the South Orange-Maplewood School District announced late on Tuesday that a student at Columbia High School has passed away.

"Dear South Orange & Maplewood School District Community," wrote Superintendent Ronald Taylor in a letter, "It is with deep regret that we inform you about a recent loss to our school community. On Tuesday, March 29, we received confirmation of the death of a Columbia High School (CHS) student. Out of respect for the family, currently, we are unable to share additional details of the student’s death."

He added, "We understand that this loss is sure to raise many emotions, concerns, and questions not only for our students, but also for members of our staff and parent community. The South Orange & Maplewood School District and CHS have a Crisis Intervention Team made up of professionals trained to help with the needs of students, parents, and school personnel at difficult times such as this."

Taylor said that this week and in coming weeks, counselors will be available to help anyone who wants "assistance surrounding this loss."

The letter included links to information about mental health resources and talking to children about grief (see below).

"We are saddened by the loss to our school community," Taylor wrote, "and will make every effort to help you and your child as you need. We encourage you, as parents, to also feel free to use our resources."

Taylor added, "We ask that everyone respect the family’s privacy during this difficult time and keep them in your thoughts and prayers."

A report in RLS Media said the death occurred off school grounds.

Student/Parent Resources:

1. SOMSD Mental Health Resources: https://bit.ly/SOMSDMHResource
2. Talking to children about death: an age-by-age guide: https://health.choc.org/talking-to-children-about-death-an-age-by-age-guide/
3. Helping Children Cope With Grief: https://childmind.org/guide/helping-children-cope-with-grief/
4. Grief Support & Resources: https://bit.ly/3iHVc1b

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