April 11, 2023
South Henry Family,
It is with tremendous sadness that I inform you that on the evening of Monday, April 10th, 2023, the Tri Titan family lost one of our very own, Jeneka Lancaster, to a tragic car accident. Jeneka was an amazing and active member of our school community. Additionally, Jeneka’s mother is a member of our Tri Jr. Sr. High School staff.
In response to this tragedy, area clergy and grief counselors were on hand throughout the day today, along with a therapy dog, to provide extra support for students and staff. We are doing everything we can to help your child and our staff through this difficult season of life.
A young person's death is always tragic, and a sudden loss like this can have a profound effect on others. We encourage you to talk with your child as death impacts each of us in different ways. How children and teens react depends on the relationship they had with the person who died, their age, and prior experience with death. Even if your child did not know Jeneka, hearing about a young person’s death can trigger feelings of sadness, fear, and anger. Any reaction is normal in the grief process. Some children appear unaffected. Some ask many questions, withdraw, are moody, sad or depressed, become scared, or have difficulty sleeping or eating. Your child may also have unresolved feelings that they would like to discuss with you. You can help by listening carefully, not overreacting, and accepting their feelings.
The South Henry team is committed to supporting our students and staff through the coming days and weeks. Members of the team are available to meet with students individually and in groups as needs arise. Please encourage your child to seek opportunities to talk to others and contact the school office if you feel your child is in need of additional assistance. Note that children who are already vulnerable may be at greater risk due to exposure to the death of a peer. If you or your child needs help right away, call the 24/7 Be Well Indiana Crisis Helpline by calling 211 (or 866-211-9966) to speak with a trained counselor, or take your child to the nearest crisis center or emergency department.
At this time, arrangements for Jeneka are pending. We will communicate information in this regard as it becomes available.
Additionally, all events scheduled for this evening have been canceled or postponed. We will resume normal after school activities tomorrow.
There are simply no words to describe the sorrow that the Tri Titan family has experienced through this loss. On behalf of the entire school community, I offer my deepest sympathy and prayers to Jeneka’s family, friends, and classmates.
Hug your children a little tighter.
We are strong. We are resilient. We are Titans.
Sincerely,
Jeremy Duncan
Superintendent, South Henry School Corporation