October 28, 2011

Dear Parents/Guardians:

It is with great sadness that we inform you that a student at Voorhees High School has passed away from injuries sustained in a tragic car accident. 

When we hear of another person’s death, it is very common for our own feelings about death to surface.  Our students will begin to think of their own experiences with death and many normal feelings will arise for them.  These feelings may focus on the person who has recently died, on another person who died in the past, an impending death, or anxiety about death in general.  Some students may be feeling guilty because they are not thinking about the death, but feel compelled to do so.  These are all very normal feelings for young people and adults to have.

As educators, we encourage you to listen carefully to your son or daughter, answering questions openly and honestly if they occur, and letting them know that even adults do not have all the answers concerning questions about death.  Many of us find this to be a confusing time and an awkward topic to discuss, but open communication is always the best path through difficult issues.

Accepting and validating your son’s/daughter’s feelings is beneficial.  During the weeks and months ahead, confusing feelings may surface periodically. It is helpful to discuss them with a parent or trusted adult.

The Guidance department, Supervisors and Child Study Team members are meeting with grieving students. Counselors are available for your children. Please encourage your son or daughter to go to the Guidance Department/Child Study Team if they need someone to help them process their grief. �

North Hunterdon High School has sent counselors up to Voorhees to support our Guidance department and students. A special thank you to North for all of their help.

During this very sad time, it is important that we pull together to support one another and keep the student’s family in your thoughts and prayers

Sincerely,

Ron Peterson                  Charles M. Shaddow

Ron Peterson                    Dr. Charles M. Shaddow
Principal                            Superintendent of School

Follow this link to download the letter: Principal’s Letter October 28th, 2011