January 8th, 2014

January 9, 2014.

Dear Parents and Guardians:

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Mary Vongkhamchanh, a grade 7 student in Ms. Benninger’s class at Laurentian P. S.  Mary is the eldest daughter of Cheng and Souphonh Vangkhamchanh.  Mary became ill quite suddenly and received medical care at McMaster Hospital.  The doctor’s discovered an inoperable mass on her brain and she was taken off life support today.

With the assistance of Social Workers from the Board’s Traumatic Response Team, we have shared this sad news with our students.   During our discussion, we talked with the students about death, feelings of sadness and loss and about how we care for one another during these difficult times.

We encourage you to support your children as you talk with them about their loss.  Encourage any questions they may have and answer them as sensitively and honestly as possible.  If you have any questions about how to support your children, please contact the school.

Funeral arrangements have not yet been completed. We will post details on our school website and the Laurentian Facebook page when they become available.

Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to the Vongkhamchanh family at this time.

 

Sincerely,

 

S. Dawson

Principal

Categories: Principal's Message