Cheshire High School announces death of student, shares grief resources

CHESHIRE, Conn. (WTNH) — The Cheshire High School principal this week announced the sudden passing of a student.

In a statement to parents and students Thursday, Principal Mary Joscelyn-Gadd said they are unable to release the name of the child due to confidentiality laws and out of respect for the family’s privacy.

School activities were canceled Thursday, Aug. 22, and officials said they would communicate about rescheduled or resumed activities.

“As a school system, we want to make sure we are supporting all of our students and our community. You are encouraged to talk to a parent, counselor here at school, another trusted adult, or to call 211 from your phone for mental health/grief support,” Joscelyn-Gadd said in her message to the school community.

The school is partnering with Wellmore Behavioral Health and Cheshire Human Services to offer counseling services at the high school. They were available Thursday and will be available again at the school library from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday.

Students are encouraged to speak with an adult if they have any questions or concerns. The district also shared the following online resources:

• National Association of School Psychologists Tips for addressing grief

• The Dougy Center for Grief

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