WHITELAND – The Clark-Pleasant Community School Corporation is mourning the death of a Whiteland Community High School student following a medical emergency at the school today.
A 15-year-old female student was pulled from a high school pool, according to the Johnson County Coroner.
In a letter sent to parents, the district said:
CPCSC family,
It is with great sadness that we inform you that a WCHS student has passed away following a medical emergency at the high school this morning. At this time, school and emergency officials are trying to determine exactly what happened.
We will provide an update as soon as possible.
Clark-Pleasant Community Schools
Students were dismissed from school at 1 p.m
Vlademer has a nephew who is a student at Whiteland Community.
She tells WRTV she knows the pain of losing someone so young, because her 16-year-old son Michael died five years ago.
“If they have other children, give them a hug every day. Because it is the day that those who leave you, leave this life and you never see it again, you wish you had”, he said. “Be strong for them. Be strong. Do things you know they would have wanted to do. Feel like they’re making a difference even though their friend is dead.”
In a follow-up email, the school said the student drowned in the pool during gym class, but the specific cause and circumstances of the student’s death are not yet known and an investigation will be conducted. “thorough investigation”.
We are writing to follow up on the tragic accident that occurred today at Whiteland Community High School that resulted in a drowning in the swimming pool during PE class. Despite the best efforts of our staff and emergency services, the student has died. The specific causes and circumstances surrounding this tragedy are not yet known, and a thorough investigation will be carried out.
Our deepest condolences and thoughts are with Alaina’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult time. We understand that this news is deeply disturbing for our entire school community, and we are here to support our students, staff and families as we grieve together.
Clark-Pleasant Community Schools
The school canceled classes for Wednesday, May 17, and says staff will report to WCHS to plan for students to return on Thursday.
School will be back on Thursday and resources will be available for students who need them.
The school also provided a list of resources and tips.
Tips to help your child cope with grief:
Be honest and provide information that is accurate and appropriate to your student’s ability to understand. Provide more affection and reassurance. Death can cause fears about your own safety or that of a loved one. Listen. When we show that we are interested in their thoughts, young people have a lot to say about tragedy and grief. Encourage the open expression of emotions through art, poetry and conversation. Share your own feelings without overwhelming your children. It’s okay for kids to know you’re experiencing and surviving your own pain. Continue with your children’s daily routines as much as possible. Be patient. Children may take longer than adults to process grief. Its processing can go through stages. They may have to ask the same questions over and over again.
Resources:
Local grief counseling groups
Brooke’s Place – Grief Support Resources
Common Sense Media – Talking to your kids about tough topics
American Psychological Association: How to tell kids about difficult news
An age-by-age guide: How to talk to your child about school shootings
PBS.org – Helping children with tragic events in the news
Clark-Pleasant Community School Corporation has several mental health resources available to students. Parents should contact their child’s school counselor to learn more about how they can receive additional specific support.
