It is with the deepest of sympathy, that we deliver to you the heartbreaking news of the death of a beloved colleague and friend, Ms. Romero. Ms. Romero was such a loving person serving the West Oaks Elementary community as a first-grade teacher. Throughout the many years as a teacher at West Oaks, she touched many lives and will be greatly missed. We will greatly miss Ms. Romero. Our thoughts and best wishes are with her family as they go through this difficult time.
Our social worker, Ms. Smith, and other staff members are here to provide support for our staff and children who need assistance. A letter was sent home with the students informing our parents about the situation.
You may find that your child may want to talk to you about Ms. Romero’s death. It is important that you realize your child may ask questions about death and may experience feelings of sorrow. These feelings are natural and part of the grieving process.
Some helpful responses for distressed or grieving students are:
1. “I can see that you are really hurting.”
2. “It’s very hard to accept the death of someone you know well.”
3. “I know…it just seems unbelievable.’
4. “It really hurts, doesn’t it?”
5. “It is especially hard when there are many unanswered questions.”
If we can be of any support to you or your child, you are encouraged to call our school social worker, Ms. Smith at (407) 532-3875.
Sincerely,
The West Oaks ES Family