New Paltz Cancels Homecoming After Student’s Death

The death of a sophomore prompted New Paltz High School to cancel homecoming activities.

The New Paltz Central School District made the announcement Friday.

"The pep rally, football game and all scheduled after-school activities are canceled due to the tragic death of one of our students," New Paltz Central School Board President Cournoyer told the Poughkeepsie Journal. "Our hearts go out to her family and friends."

A memorial service for the 10th grade student was held Sunday at SUNY New Paltz's Studley Theater, according to the New Paltz Middle School PTA Facebook page.

The district posted the following announcement on its website:

The New Paltz High School Principal, counseling staff and the high school teachers have shared with students that it is normal to experience an array of feelings after a tragic incident such as the sudden loss of a classmate. It is important that the students understand that it's normal to feel angry or sad, shocked or, even frightened, and that it's very, very important to share their feelings with an adult. We have stressed that it's also important to talk with friends, but if students feel overwhelmed they need to speak with their parent(s) or another adult they can trust and who is able to help them.

Resources available to students and families include: