South Tama County district leaders announced the death of a sophomore student on Tuesday morning and canceled all activities for the day while offering grief support services for those affected by the situation.

Superintendent John Cain issued the following letter to Trojan families, which is printed in its entirety below.

“The South Tama County Community School District was deeply saddened this morning when receiving news of the passing of a sophomore STC student. All scheduled district events this evening have been canceled. Optional practices at the high school may be scheduled.

We all react in individual ways to this type of event. Things such as developmental level, our relationships with people impacted, our previous experiences of loss, and our personal perceptions of death impact how we deal with this event.

We should expect, try to understand, and accept a variety of emotions and behaviors. The most important thing we should do is to be supportive and encourage discussion about the events, our feelings, and what we can do in response to it. At this time, our counselors, liaisons and support personnel from the AEA are available for students and staff.

Today and tomorrow as well as on an as needed basis, South Tama County will have counseling and grief support in place. In addition, here are a few community resources for you and your family if needed:

�–� New Life Evangelical ~ Steve Brant (641.485.8050)

�–� St. Pat’s Catholic Church ~ Father Michael McAndrew (641.484.3039)

�–� Christ United & Living Faith Methodist Churches ~ Pastor Clint Anderson (641.484.3564 or 641.484.2204)

We encourage you as parents and caregivers to read over the following list of ways you can help your child deal with these events and to use them as you feel is appropriate. You can also use this link for additional information.

What Can I Do as a Parent/Guardian?

1. Be available and willing to discuss the events and honestly share your feelings about them.

2. Allow your child to express fears and feelings. Let him/her question things without being judgmental.

3. Maintain your daily routines as it offers students a sense of security.

4. Be present and watchful of your child in the days and weeks ahead. Watch for any changes in behavior. If you do notice changes, talk them over with a school counselor.

5. Give assurances of love, support, and safety.

6. Be patient. Students may express a variety of emotions within a short period of time.

The South Tama County school counselors and support team at all levels, will be available in the days and weeks ahead. Please let us know how we can be of assistance to you and your family.”

By Wednesday, the deceased student had been identified in social media posts as Sydney Culbertson, and district leaders announced that they were canceling the homecoming parade scheduled for Thursday night as well as the pep rally slated for Friday afternoon. The Friday night homecoming football game and Saturday’s ninth grade volleyball tournament and homecoming dance will still go on as previously scheduled.