Allegan Families:
It is with a heavy heart that I need to inform you of the passing of Pine Trails Elementary 3rd grade teacher, Carrie Penny, after her hard-fought battle with an illness. This loss will reverberate throughout the district and community, as Carrie was loved by all who knew her. While we are devastated at her passing, Carrie’s impact on the children of our community lives on in the hundreds of students that were fortunate enough to have been taught by her during her time at Pine Trails.
Pine Trails Elementary teachers will be reading a brief statement to students in grades 3-5 on Tuesday morning, informing them of Mrs. Penny’s passing. I felt that it was important to provide you with this information in advance, in case you would like to tell your child before they come to school tomorrow.
With children, a discussion of death may trigger emotional feelings about the death of a relative or favorite pet. Children often personalize and worry when they hear news of someone they know dying. It is important that they have an opportunity to talk about these feelings. It is also important that you take the time to answer any questions your child may have. Children will respond differently to today’s information about Mrs. Penny. Allow your child the opportunity to have an open conversation with you if needed, and allow them to guide the conversation with what they feel they need to understand. You may wish to refer to this document to help your child with the grief they may experience.
Counselors and social workers will be on hand tomorrow to support staff and students. Feel free to reach out to your building principal if you have any questions.
Carrie’s infectious smile and joyful personality will be missed. We will continue to keep Carrie’s family in our thoughts during this difficult time.
