In Memory of Reid Kyfiuk
Today we need to share some difficult news with you. Over the holiday one of our students in Gr. 10, Reid Kyfiuk passed away while snowboarding with his family on Mt. Washington. A Celebration of Reid's life was held at St. Joseph the Worker Roman Catholic Church on December 29th, 2015 and a number of our students and staff were in attendance.
When things like this happen, people have different kinds of reactions, like shock, sadness, fear and anger. Those reactions may rise and fall throughout the day, and even for days to come. Some of us will want to have quiet time alone and others may want some time to talk to peers or adults. Some of you who didn’t know Reid may be ready for teachers to return to academics sooner than others. We all need to practice patience and respect for each other.
To our students we can take some time to talk about this now in block 2 classes. When most of you are ready to return to learning, those who still wish time to talk or think about this may go to the Career Centre, which we have set aside so you can gather. You will have to sign out of this class when you leave and sign in at the Career Centre as soon as you arrive. We recognize the need for you to seek support, so we are providing the Career Centre for you. It is important that all students be in some setting that has an adult present to provide assistance if needed. If any of you wish to talk one-on-one, support services will be available and accessible in the Career Centre all day.
The school day will remain on schedule, but teachers in any class may postpone regular classroom activities in order to talk about this event. Let us know how you are doing as we move through the day.
For immediate emotional support, crisis intervention, and/or information on community resources:
Vancouver Island Crisis Line 1-888-494-3888
youthspace.ca Online Crisis Chat Text 778-783-0177