Good morning, Teravista families,

It is with great sadness that I share about the loss of a beloved member of our community. Patrick Case, our fourth-grade student who was hit by a vehicle while riding his bike last week, passed away peacefully yesterday evening. He was truly loved by his friends and teachers here. We are heartbroken at this loss and know that many of our students and staff may be, too. 

We are sharing this information with staff and families, so that families may handle the news in the way that works best for them.

Students and staff will react in different ways to such a loss, some more intensely than others. The Counseling Team is here and available to support students and staff, and we will have additional support on campus all day today.  It’s important to allow our children to express their feelings. We encourage you to do the same, and offer these helpful tips for families, provided by the National Association of School Psychologists.

Traumatic events like the loss of a friend or peer can trigger emotional responses that may require counseling support. If you notice your child exhibiting any of the following signs, please do not hesitate to reach out to one of our counselors or administrators:

Restlessness, nervous behavior

Trouble concentrating

Repeatedly asking questions

Concentrating on previous losses and events

Significant changes in behavior or grades

If your child shares information or asks questions about this, please take time to listen and talk with them. It is important for our kids to have their feelings acknowledged and to help them understand that it is OK to feel sad or cry. 

It is also normal if they do not feel anything right away. It can take a while—sometimes days or weeks—for children to show their feelings, and that is normal. No matter when the feelings surface, it is important to provide clarity and validation of their feelings. 

We want to make sure that all of our students receive the support and assistance they need to process this loss. Together we will help and care for one another as we move through this difficult time together.

Sincerely, 

Michael Wakefield
Principal
Teravista Elementary