Community Message #2. 6.20.22: Loss to School Community

NEWS

Community Message #2. 6.20.22: Loss to School Community

June 20, 2022

Dear Warwick School Community,

It is with deep regret that we inform you about a recent loss to our school community.

On June 19, 2022, Warwick Valley Middle School sixth-grader, Justin Reale, passed away. 

On behalf of the school district, I want to send Justin’s family our deepest condolences at this very hard time. The parents expressed a willingness to disclose the following information: Justin had a great day on Saturday with family and he said before bed that he was excited about upcoming end-of-school-year events. When his mother went to wake him up the next morning, he had passed.

This tragic loss is sure to raise many emotions, concerns, and questions for our entire school district, especially our students. On Monday, June 20, 2022, the District Crisis Intervention Team, comprised of district leaders and counselors, met to plan crisis support services for our students and faculty/staff.

On Tuesday, counselors from the Orange County Emergency Response Team, made up of professionals trained to help with the needs of students and school personnel at difficult times such as this, will be at the middle school to provide support and grief counseling.

Our Warwick Valley Middle School counselors and psychologists will also be available for any student who may need or want help, or any type of assistance, surrounding this loss. We also encourage you, as parents, to feel free to use our resources.

Below is information that may be useful to you in helping your child at home. If you would like additional information or need assistance, please do not hesitate to contact your child’s school guidance counselor.

Justin’s teachers share that he was always kind to his classmates and always happy to be in school. His teacher, Mrs. DiGiantommaso shared, “He was the sweetest little boy.”

We are very saddened by this loss to our school community and will make every effort to help you and your child as needed.

Sincerely,

David Leach
Superintendent
Warwick Valley Central School District

 

RESOURCES

  • The Dougy Center for Grieving Children and Teens
    www.dougy.org

  • National Association of School Psychologists

Addressing Grief in Children: Tips for Parents and Educators

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