Good afternoon,
I’m writing to update the community regarding an incident that occurred yesterday afternoon in the Wellness Center. As students were preparing to begin their athletic practices, a student experienced a severe medical emergency. Several students were present and witnessed this student in distress.
We are thankful that our students acted quickly in notifying a responsible adult. Our trained medical staff, members of our teaching and support staff, and administrators all reported to the scene along with our School Resource Officer. Students were removed from the location as our medical staff members supported the student along with EMTs and a Paramedic. We would like to extend our gratitude to all staff and medical personnel who quickly responded.
Last evening, we convened an administration team meeting to ensure we had appropriate protocols in place to support students who witnessed this event while simultaneously investigating what transpired before, during, and after the incident. That process continues as we seek a full understanding of exactly what transpired and what may be done in the future to avoid or better respond to this type of emergency.
We have been in contact with the student’s family and have offered the District’s full support during this difficult time. Please join me in extending your well wishes to this child and their family, with hope for a quick recovery and return to the Putnam Valley School Community.
If your child is in need of any additional support, please do not hesitate to contact the school so we can provide the services they need. Unfortunately, these events tend to quickly escalate into rumors or misunderstandings; please encourage your child to avoid passing on information that may be inaccurate. If your child does have information they would like to share regarding this incident, they should be encouraged to speak to a member of our support staff or an administrator in their building.
Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.
Dr. Jeremy Luft
Superintendent of Schools