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Permission was granted through the family to share this information. Before you begin reading, the information in this communication may elicit strong emotions. Please take the time and space you need to support your own wellness. Resources are included below should you require additional mental health support.
The Kenora Catholic District School Board is heartbroken and grieving the sudden loss of Evan and Callie Joseph, who were in a tragic vehicle accident on Friday, April 21. They have been students at the Kenora Catholic District School Board since Kindergarten and this devastating loss impacts our entire school community and beyond, and they will be deeply missed.
We express our deepest sympathies to the Joseph family, their friends, educators, communities, and everyone connected to the family. Please keep them in your prayers during this incredibly difficult time.
As we journey through the days ahead, we are offering support to our students that includes access to our team of Mental Health Professionals, classroom discussions (as needed), one-to-one talks with caring adults, including our Elder in Residence and Chaplain, extra time with our guidance department, and special consideration for tests and assignments. Grief and sadness are expressed in many different ways. We will be closely monitoring students who are closest to this loss or who have recently experienced loss.
We are a tight-knit community and we know that many of our families are processing this news over the weekend, and we offer you support and guidance as you may be having conversations with your child(ren) and preparing them for school next week. The attached tip sheets have been developed by our Mental Health Team to support you through conversations during times of grief and tragedy.
Mental Health Support for Students
The Kenora Catholic District School Board has a team of regulated Mental Health Professionals who can provide mental health support to students. Please register for support through our Student Referral Process:
https://kcdsb.ontarionow.ca/external-referral/, or by emailing Sue Devlin, Mental Health Clinical Supervisor at
[email protected].
Flags across the Kenora Catholic District School Board will be lowered in honour of the family, during this time of grief and incredible loss to our community.
Our hearts are with all those affected by this loss, and we keep the family foremost in our prayers during this difficult time. Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them.
Letter to Families with Mental Health Supports - April 22, 2023