Dear Hemby Bridge Parents,

It is with great sadness that I inform you about the death of two of our students here at Hemby Bridge Elementary School. Over the weekend, Alyssa Nicole and Ryan Alexander Sherland, died at their home. Alyssa, age 7, was a first grade student in Mrs. Dunn’s class. Ryan, age 9, was a fourth grade student in Mr. Rybon’s class.

We have shared information and had discussions with our first through fifth grade students so they know about the deaths of Alyssa and Ryan. Counselors, teachers and other support personnel have been and will continue to be available to students, teachers and parents on an ongoing basis. Please call the school (704-882-1191), if you want assistance.

Parents, I would like to ask you to be very sensitive to your child’s emotions and grief over the loss of Alyssa and Ryan. The death of a student may affect a child in a variety of ways depending on the age of your child, how well your child knew Alyssa and Ryan and your child’s prior experience with grief.

When reacting to a death, your child may exhibit some of the following reactions:
• appear not to be affected
• ask a lot of questions
• be agitated and angry
• try extra hard to be good
• be thinking about it privately
• be frightened
• be sad and withdrawn

We suggest you listen to your children. If they seem to need to talk, answer their questions simply, honestly, and possibly over and over again.

This is a very difficult time, and if we can help you and/or your child, please don’t hesitate to call on us. Our thoughts are with Alyssa and Ryan and their family.

Sincerely,

Mike Drye, Principal
Hemby Bridge Elementary School