It is with profound sadness that I share that one of our high school students passed away this morning, September 14, 2025, by suicide. This is an unimaginable loss for our school community, and our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the student’s family and friends.
The safety, well-being, and care of our students are always our highest priority. Our Crisis Response Team has been activated, and additional counselors and mental health professionals will be available throughout the district to support students and staff. We are also providing teachers with guidance on how to support students who may be grieving or struggling in the days ahead.
We recognize that this news may affect your child in different ways. We encourage you to take time to talk with them, listen to their feelings, and if you believe your student may need immediate support, please contact Westmoreland County Crisis at 1-800-836-6010.
A list of counseling resources and immediate support contacts is included below:
- Westmoreland County Crisis Line: 1-800-836-6010
- Suicide Survivors Handout
- Supporting Children Teens After a Suicide Death
- Survivors of Suicide
- Helping Children Cope with Loss, Death, and Grief: Tips for Teachers and Parents
Thank you for your continued care, compassion, and partnership as we come together to support one another during this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Dr. Gennaro R. Piraino, Jr.
Superintendent of Schools