May 30, 2023
Dear White Salmon Valley Community,
It is with deep sadness that I share with you all that Rich Lyons, a long-time science teacher at Henkle Middle School passed away two days ago from natural causes. Mr. Lyons retired from Henkle Middle School in the Spring of 2021 after working for WSVSD for 24 years and his two children, Brittney and Ethan both graduated from Columbia High School. We know that he impacted our staff and students tremendously. In the coming days, we will have additional counseling services available at the high school as needed.
It is natural that students will experience this loss in different ways. Some might experience sadness, tearfulness, and even anger. This is natural, and we want them to be able to address their feelings. Checking in with your child about Mr. Lyons, will give them a chance to talk about how they are doing.
White Salmon School staff is doing everything possible to respond to this tragedy. Please join us by keeping The Lyons family in your thoughts. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to call your building administrator or the Wellness Center.
We are including some resources below that may be helpful in navigating this difficult time.
Thank you for your support,
Jerry Lewis
Superintendent
White Salmon Valley Schools
RESOURCES
Handouts:
Developmental Responses to Grief
10 Tips for Supporting Kids Who are Grieving
Grief Resources for Teens
https://www.dougy.org/grief-support-resources/teens
Grief Resources for Kids
https://www.dougy.org/grief-support-resources/kids
Grief Resources for School Personnel
https://www.dougy.org/grief-support-resources/supporters-of-grievers/school-personnel
Grief Resources for Parents and Caregivers
https://www.dougy.org/grief-support-resources/parents-caregivers