A tragic loss has shaken the Ravenna community following the death of a fourth-grade student at West Main Elementary School on May 7. The student, a young girl whose name has not been publicly released, passed away Tuesday evening, prompting an outpouring of grief and a rapid response from school officials and community support services.
In response to the heartbreaking event, the Ravenna School District has mobilized resources to support students, staff, and families grappling with the news. Superintendent Ben Ribelin confirmed the student’s passing and emphasized the district’s commitment to addressing the emotional impact on the school community.
On May 8, an email from the district was shared widely among parents, including in the popular Facebook group Portage County and Neighbors. The email informed families of the student’s death and outlined steps being taken to provide support.
“We wanted our families to know in case your child comes home and says they have heard about this incident,” the message read. “We are all affected when something happens to a member of our school community.”
To assist students in coping with the loss, the district brought in the Portage County Crisis Team. The team was present at West Main Elementary on May 8 and is scheduled to return on May 9.
They are working with students through a variety of support activities designed to help them process their emotions and offer a safe space to talk. The email encouraged parents who would like the team to meet with their children to make a request through their child’s school building.
“The Crisis Team has activities that will help students cope with what they are feeling and are available to talk,” the email stated. “Please ask for help if your child is having a difficult time.”
Grief can be particularly difficult for children to navigate, especially in a close-knit elementary school setting where students often develop deep bonds with their classmates.
The district is urging families to be vigilant and to reach out for help if their children appear to be struggling in the wake of the tragedy. Counselors, teachers, and school administrators are all working together to ensure no student feels alone during this time.
While details surrounding the circumstances of the girl’s death remain limited, authorities have confirmed that the incident is under investigation. Wayne Enders, administrator of the Portage County Coroner’s Office, reported that a child was airlifted to a nearby hospital.
However, he did not have further information about what occurred afterward. The Summit County Medical Examiner’s Office has taken over the case and stated that it remains under investigation. No additional details have been released at this time.
The lack of public information has left many in the community with questions, but the focus remains on supporting the grieving family and the affected school population. Community members have taken to social media to express condolences and offer prayers, with many commending the school district for its compassionate and immediate response.
As Ravenna mourns the loss of this young student, the district’s message is one of unity and compassion. “Our thoughts are with this student’s family and friends,” the email stated. “Please don’t hesitate to ask for help.”
The coming days will undoubtedly be difficult for West Main Elementary and the broader Ravenna school community. But with professional support, open communication, and a network of care, students and families will not have to face this tragedy alone.
