NORFOLK, Va. — Norfolk Public Schools is mourning the sudden deaths of two students from Lake Taylor High School ahead of the start of the school year, according to Norfolk Public Schools.
We're told both students were rising seniors. The school division said the students will be greatly missed.
Superintendent Dr. Jeff Rose addressed the losses in a statement.
"We grieve with the families of these students during their sudden deaths and more than anything else right now we need to surround each other with compassion and love," Dr. Rose said. "To know that both of these young men were on the cusp of graduating and starting the next phase into adulthood gives all of us tremendous pain. To every student who may be struggling please know that you matter, your life has value and it is okay to ask for help."
The school division is working closely with Lake Taylor High School to ensure counseling and additional supports are available for students and staff as they prepare to return to school on Monday, Aug. 24.
Lake Taylor High School Principal Brandon Bell also released a statement.
"I want the families, friends, and staff at Lake Taylor High School to know that we will support one another in any way possible," Bell said. "We know that members of our school community may experience these losses in different ways, and we are committed to surrounding each other with care and support in the days and weeks ahead."
Dr. Rose issued a second statement calling on the community to come together.
"It is imperative that we give each other extra grace during this time," Dr. Rose said. "Let us unite and honor these two young lives by caring for one another, checking on one another to create an even-more connected community where everyone feels seen, heard, valued, and supported."
Norfolk Public Schools did not give further details on the passing of the two students and asked the entire school community to honor the families' privacy during this time.
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