Dear Parents,
As you may or may not be aware, our school has recently experienced the passing of one of our Grade 10 students., Thabo Senoamadi , which has deeply affected us. Whenever death touches us, it is extremely stressful. Thabo’s sudden passing may be quite shocking to your child/children and for these reasons, we especially want you to know of our caring and support.
At any time death is such an unwelcome visitor. Whether we know it might be imminent or whether it comes suddenly and unannounced, it remains unwelcome and uninvited. More so when a young life is struck down on the threshold of a promising future without warning. And sadly, in our pandemic times this has become an all to regular occurrence.
We must grieve for Thabo but we must also celebrate the joy and happiness he brought to so many. Our tears must water his passing but also feed his memory that must endure for years to come, and especially at this time, our sympathies go out to his mother and father, family and friends. No words can ease the shock and sadness which is left by such a loss. Thabo was a prince amongst men.
Death can be difficult for us to understand, especially when it is sudden. Many of us may be confronted with a variety of emotions, which might include shock, sadness, and confusion. I want to assure you that we at MECS, care about your child and the feelings he or she may be experiencing. Please know that we want to support you during this time.
As a school we have implemented a grief counselling program in the High School, in an effort to provide an appropriate response to the situation. Students and staff will react in different ways to tragedies of this nature, so it will be important to have support available to assist both staff and students in need at this time.
A counselor is available in the school setting to assist students as they express their feelings related to Thabo’s sudden passing. If you feel your child is in need of special assistance or is having a great deal of difficulty coping with the loss, please do not hesitate to call.
While it is important to deal with grief, loss, anger and fear reactions, we believe it is essential to resume as normal a routine as possible regarding school activities. Please observe your child closely over the next several days and weeks to watch for signs of distress, which may indicate a need for additional support and guidance. Feel free to call if you have any concerns or questions regarding your child, or the steps being taken by the school to address this tragic loss.
Sincerely Yours
Brian Dawson
