Today’s newsletter is presented by Stephan Barrington, DDS.
Hello, Navajo and College Area!
“Hey Dad, did you hear what happened?”
That was the call I got from my son at around 3 p.m. from Pershing Middle School.
Of course I had heard what happened. It’s something no one wants to hear, whether you’re a journalist, a parent or a member of the same community.
It’s something no one wants to talk about with their 7th grade son. But he already knew. The whole school knew.
My son’s classmate, her mother and her father were found dead in their San Carlos home.
While few details have been released, San Diego Police confirmed that the three were found shot to death in their home near Gage Elementary. The gun was found in the house. A neighbor had gone to the house this morning after hearing loud bangs on Tuesday night. They walked into a scene they will never forget.
My son, and so many other young kids in San Carlos, heard news they will likely also never forget.
Later in the afternoon, I overheard my son and his friend talk about the girl. How nice she was and how popular she was. It’s good that she will be remembered that way.
In a note to parents, Pershing Middle’s Principal Kristy Aragon wrote, “It is with a heavy heart that I share the unexpected passing of one of our eighth-grade students due to an event in their home. We are deeply saddened by this loss, and our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with those closest to the student and family.”
In her note, Principal Aragon added, “We recognize that news like this can be difficult for students and our entire school community. District counselors will be available on campus this week to provide support to students and staff. We will continue to make resources available for as long as needed.”
“Families can also play an important role in helping children process this loss. We encourage you to give your child an opportunity to talk about their thoughts and feelings if the subject comes up. Listen to their questions, respond honestly and in an age-appropriate way, and remember that it is okay to say you do not have the answers. Most importantly, reassure your child that they are cared for and supported at home and at school.”
Everyone processes grief in their own way. Like Principal Aragon said, remind your kids that there’s no shame in asking for help through that process — even if that help is needed months later. Pershing Middle has mental health services available throughout the year. If your student doesn’t know where to start they can fill out this form to have their counselor connect them with support.
Dorian Hargrove
Mission Times newsletter host
Navajo, College Area story spotlight
Parents and young daughter found dead inside San Carlos home
By Times of San Diego Staff Reports
A couple and their 8th-grade daughter were found dead in their San Carlos home from gunshot wounds.
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