Dear Houn` Dawg Family,

The news I am sending is with great sadness.  It is a message that no school employee, or anyone in general, wants to pass on to others.  

This afternoon an Aurora R-VIII High School student passed away from a self-inflicted incident.  Students at the High School and all staff were informed of the situation before school was dismissed.  This loss is sure to raise many emotions, concerns and questions for our entire District.  

The Aurora R-VIII Counseling Department will be providing “Crisis Intervention” assistance today, Tuesday, September 21 until 6:00 p.m. and Wednesday, September 22, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Aurora R-VIII High School.  These services are available for students, parents, staff and community members. 

We encourage the use of these professionals for anyone affected by this tragic loss or who are struggling with similar thoughts.  If this time frame does not meet your needs to attend, or if you require services in the near future, we ask that you call the Central Office at (417) 678-3373 to schedule an appointment with any of our building counselors.  

Additional information will also be available to assist with explaining or assessing the risk of suicide for others.  The Aurora R-VIII Suicide Prevention-Plan of Action includes resources for students, staff and parents to assist in times of uncertainty.

We are saddened by this loss to our school community and will make every effort to help anyone touched by the student's passing.   We encourage parents and guardians complete continual checks of their child's well-being in order to prevent any future tragedies.

Please let us know how we may assist you.  It is important that we come together in this time of need to provide comfort for everyone.

Sincerely,

Billy Redus