Dear Parents/Caregivers,

As some of you may already know, we have sad news to share about one of our students.  Olivia Michelle Hernandez, a senior at Hiram Johnson, died over the weekend.  Out of respect for the family’s privacy, this is all the information we have to share.   We have offered our assistance to the family, and we will continue to reach out to them during this time.   As a school community, we ask that you join us in keeping this family in your thoughts as we all mourn the loss of Olivia. 

We also know Olivia’s death may raise many emotions, concerns, and questions for your student.  Our Student Support Center staff, Academic Counselors, and district Mental Health Crisis Response team members are providing both in-person and virtual support for students in need this week.   Students can access information about available bereavement supports via their teachers’ Google Classrooms or they can stop by the Support Center in Room F-1.

We also want to recognize that this has been a particularly challenging time for all of us.  The pandemic has upended the lives of individuals, families, communities and our world in so many ways.   For this reason, it is more important than ever that we stay connected in order to support the emotional and physical well-being of our loved ones and ourselves.  To learn more about how to deal with stress, please check out the Mental Health America website (https://mhanational.org/taking-time-yourself)

If you, your child or someone you know is struggling, help is available 24/7:

• The Source:  (youth 26 years old and younger and their parents/caregivers).  Call/Text 916-SUPPORT (916-787-7678).  Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. https://thesourcesacramento.com/ 
• Suicide Prevention Hotline – 916-368-3111  https://www.wellspacehealth.org/services/behavioral-health-prevention/suicide-prevention

Hiram Johnson is a close-knit community that pulls together to help each other when crises occur.  Please reach out to us if you notice your child may need help in dealing with the news of Olivia’s death.  The Student Support Center is available to help.  Contact the Support Center Coordinator, Mary-Struhs@scusd.edu or her district cell, 916-826-3223.  Or, if you would like to speak with your student’s Academic Counselor, they would also welcome hearing from you.

Warm Regards,

Garrett Kirkland, Principal

Hiram Johnson High School