Dear West Hempstead School Community,
As a follow-up to my letter yesterday afternoon, it is with utmost sadness that I inform you that the student who passed away in yesterday’s tragic accident is West Hempstead High School senior Amanda Arguinzoni.
Amanda was a shining example of Ram Pride. She was continually growing and improving in all facets of school and was involved in activities both inside and outside of our building. Not only was she a cheerleader, but she held two jobs outside of school. Amanda had a big, bubbly personality that permeated our hallways, and she had a great rapport with the faculty and her fellow peers. Amanda will be greatly missed by our school community and those who had the pleasure of knowing her.
As you can imagine, the past two days have been extremely difficult for our district – especially for our high school students. As I noted yesterday, our crisis plan has been activated and counseling “centers” have been established at the high school for any student or staff member in need of assistance. If you feel your child is struggling and needs additional help, please reach out to us. We are here for your children and will support them in any way we can.
I once again offer my sincerest condolences to Amanda’s family and friends. She was a valuable member of our West Hempstead family who will be remembered fondly.
Sincerely,
Daniel Rehman
Superintendent of Schools
Online Resources:
Addressing Grief, from the National Association of School Psychologists
The Child's Loss: Death Grief and Mourning, by Bruce D. Perry, M.D., Ph.D., and Jana Rubenstein, M.Ed., LPC
How to Help a Grieving Teen, from the Dougy Center