CB East Community Mourns Unexpected Death Of Student

BUCKINGHAM, PA — The Central Bucks High School East community is mourning the unexpected loss of one of its students this week.

In an announcement sent out to staff, parents and students earlier this week, Acting Superintendent Dr. Charles Malone announced the passing of sophomore Samuel Hanson.

"As a district community, we are all connected, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to Sam’s family, friends, and all who knew and cared for him," wrote Malone.

"This is incredibly difficult news for many across our schools and community. Sam and his family have ties not just to CB East, but also to CB West, Tohickon Middle School, and Groveland Elementary School," wrote Malone. "Families at these schools have received separate communication with information specific to their school communities. Counselors, school social workers, and additional support will be available to support students, teachers, or staff who may need assistance."

In response to Sam's death, family and friends of the Hanson family have established a GoFundMe page that has already surpassed $38,000 for the family

According to family friend Melissa Trouts, who set up the GoFundMe page, donations will be used for funeral expenses, household needs, and to help offset a potential loss of income as the family grieves.

To date, the page has raised $38,000 toward its goal of $50,000.

"What an absolutely amazing outpouring of love and support for the Hanson family," wrote Trouts, after the fundraiser surpassed $25,000. "With your generosity, we have surpassed half of the fundraising goal. Please consider sharing the link with additional friends, family, co-workers, and businesses. Thank you again for helping Sam's family during this time of need."

Trouts, whose son considered Sam one of his best friends, describes Sam as "bright, polite, athletic, funny, friendly, and amazing ... He will be missed dearly by so many. Please know your generosity, compassion, and kindness will help ease some of the stress surrounding this profound loss."

For information or to donate, click here.

In an email to parents and students on Wednesday, school principal Chad Watters said the school will continue to offer support for students who may be grieving or who need someone to talk with.

He said that school counselors, social workers, psychologists, and administrators will be available throughout the school day on Thursday. While the library has served as a central hub, he said the team has also been meeting with students individually, facilitating small group conversations, remaining available for drop-ins, and conducting intentional check-ins to ensure no student feels overlooked.

"This school year has been emotionally difficult for our school and community," the principal wrote. "Losing another member of our school community this year is heartbreaking, and we know families are carrying many emotions.

"We recognize that grief does not follow a timeline. Some students may feel the impact of this loss more deeply as time passes, while others may need repeated opportunities to talk, reflect, or simply feel supported. We want students and families to know that help remains available."

Watters said the school team will continue identifying students who may need more targeted and intentional support and will partner closely with parents. "Students may request to see a counselor at any time by speaking with a teacher or administrator," he said.

The principal thanked Roxy Therapy Dogs and their handlers for being at East each day during Lunch and Learn. "Their calming presence has provided meaningful comfort to many students and staff, and we are thankful to everyone who helped make this support possible," said Watters.

The principal added that teachers have been encouraged to remain flexible and attentive to students’ needs as the school community continues to navigate together.

"At home, we encourage families to continue checking in with their child, listening to their thoughts and emotions, and offering reassurance. If you notice ongoing changes in mood, behavior, sleep, or appetite, please let us know so we can partner with you in supporting your child," he wrote.

"This morning, many students came together for Mini-THON. We heard powerful stories from our students, celebrated hope, danced, and raised thousands of dollars to support childhood cancer research," wrote Watters. "Moments like these remind us of the strength, compassion, and resilience that define our school community, even during difficult times."

Watters said the school is actively planning QPR (Question, Persuade, and Refer) training for students and parents. QPR is an evidence-informed suicide prevention program designed to help individuals recognize warning signs of emotional distress and respond in a supportive, effective way.

"While our staff was trained in QPR last school year, we will be providing more training next week. Additional details about student and parent/guardian training will be shared as planning is finalized," he wrote.