Mattanawcook Academy

February 23, 2021

Dear R.S.U. No. 67 Families,

I am deeply saddened to inform you that a student at Ella P. Burr School died tragically in a fire at her home last evening.  She was a beloved member of the Ella P. Burr School community and will be missed greatly.

Your child may have questions or worries about this loss. We encourage you to talk with your child. How we, as adults, manage ourselves serves as an important model for helping kids handle tragedies like this. It is important that your child is loved and supported as he/she talks about his/her feelings.

You may want to consider the following when talking with your child:

• Tell the truth. Talk about death vs. “going to sleep.” Explain the situation.
• Allow for your child to talk about feelings. If this is the first loss your child has experienced, your child may not know how to respond and will be looking for your guidance.
• Affirm all expressions.  It is okay to express feelings honestly. Tolerate the expressions rather than dismissing them or discouraging the expression of feelings.
• Encourage written expressions such as notes, letters, pictures to the family, etc.
• Reaffirm that your child is safe and that your child is loved.
• Affirm that your child’s reaction is normal and you understand the way your child feels.
• Watch for signs such as lack of concentration, sleeplessness, unusual fears, withdrawal, etc.
• Help your child return to a normal routine as soon as possible.

 District school counselors are available to provide emotional support for our students and staff. If you have special counseling concerns or would like additional support for your child, please contact your school’s counselor.

• Patrice Turner, Ella P. Burr School at 794-3014
• Louise Adelstone, Mattanawcook Jr. High School at 794-8935
• Andrea Smith or Henry Pietras, Mattanawcook Academy at 794-6711.

 Our deepest sympathies go to her entire family.

 Sincerely,

Jean M. Skorapa, Superintendent of Schools