Dozens of schools, health care facilities and nonprofits have offered resources to assist the students and staff of Shenendehowa High School in the wake of the tragic car accident that claimed the lives of Deanna Rivers and Christopher Stewart, Shen seniors, and seriously injured Matt Hardy, a Shen junior. Bailey Wind, a Shaker High School senior, also was seriously injured.
Numerous small businesses and individuals want to assist with scholarship efforts to recognize these young people. Churches and their parishioners have prayed for our healing.
The outpouring of love, compassion and support for not only the families affected but for the entire Shenendehowa Central School District and the greater Clifton Park-Halfmoon communities has been overwhelming and inspiring, to say the least.
St. Edward the Confessor Church and Corpus Christi Church have comforted us and allowed for the types of tributes and remembrances befitting these outstanding youth. The State Police, including those officers who assisted that night, along with the Saratoga County Sheriff's Department have allowed us to safely organize a tribute and attend the wakes and funerals. The high school Parent-Teacher-Student Association and the Shen PTA Council, along with our sister schools and the district office, have supported us with resources, food, materials for memorials and their positive thoughts and energy.
Perhaps most impressive to me has been how our students, faculty and staff have rallied around one another. The resiliency, empathy and character of our students have been tested in the cruelest of ways.
In education, we often speak of student and staff accountability; they have passed the most important of all tests: Coming to the aid and support of others in such a way that these students' legacy will never be forgotten.
Our students and their peers have inspired us, helping us understand the power of shared concern and the impact of social media used appropriately. They have defined themselves as people who care deeply for one another and who can rise to the occasion.
The Shenendehowa Class of 2013 will never be the same; surely they are better off for having known Deanna and Chris. These seniors are now challenged to remember the example of their departed classmates: To become more serious students, more committed athletes and teammates, more loyal friends and more loving individuals.
The Shenendehowa family will recover with time and the continued support of our families, friends, colleagues and community. I offer my sincere appreciation to all who supported us, and I ask for your continued care and concern for the families. It is a privilege to be associated with this school district and the surrounding communities.
DONALD P. FLYNT
Principal
Shenendehowa High School