Update
Please see the letter below from the superintendent and the Laurel Highlands School District family.
Dear Families, Staff, and Community Members,
It is with a heavy heart that I write to you today. Our school community has recently experienced the profoundly painful loss of several of our beloved staff members and a former student. During times like these, words often feel inadequate to express the deep sorrow and grief we share as a community.
Our thoughts, prayers, and deepest sympathies go out to the families, loved ones, and friends affected by these tragic losses. Each of these individuals made a lasting impact on our school community, and we will all feel their absence deeply.
As we navigate this difficult time together, supporting our students, families, and staff is our top priority. We know that grief affects everyone differently, and we are committed to providing the resources and care necessary to help our community heal.
Please know that our school counselors and members of our regional Crisis Response Team will be present across our school buildings throughout this week. They will be available to meet with students, teachers, and staff who need support, a safe space to talk, or help processing their grief.
If you feel your child needs extra support or would benefit from speaking with a counselor, please do not hesitate to contact your school’s main office or administrative team. If you, your child, or someone you know is struggling or needs immediate support outside of school hours, support is available 24/7. The Fayette County 24-hour crisis hotline can be reached at 724-4371003 or by dialing 988. Crisis text Line: Text HOME to 741-741 (or text PA to 741741).
Please take time to care for yourselves and check in on one another. Children often look to adults for guidance on how to process grief; listening openly and reassuring them that their feelings are valid can make a meaningful difference.
Thank you for your continued strength, compassion, and unity as we lean on each other through this challenging time.
Sincerely,
Dr. Jesse T. Wallace, III and the Laurel Highlands School District Family