Sadly the death of a student, former student, or staff member is an event that may occur at any time. Temporary memorials can provide students the opportunity to give testimony to their peers, as well as learn how to direct their generosity to grieving family members. The opportunity to participate in temporary activities and projects can help students and staff come to accept the finality of their loss. An initial memorial site will be designated by the principal where flowers, poems, pictures, stuffed animals in an area where those who wish not to be reminded can easily avoid that location. Memorial items will be removed after the family funeral in a way that permits presentation of these symbols of caring to the family.
No individual memorial plaques will be placed on District property. However, a group memorial will be established on the new high school campus. The District will place a plaque or sidewalk brick for each student or employee who passes away while a student or employee of the district.
Memorials for staff and students lost through suicide will not be established. This policy is the result of the fact that recognition of student suicide may adversely affect others predisposed to suicide.