WSVSD

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