A notification sent out to families in the Gasconade County R-2 School District on May 29 informed them of the death of an Owensville High School (OHS) student. Superintendent Dr. Jeri Kay Hardy shared condolences while informing families that the district’s resources are available for those processing the loss.

“It is with great sadness that we must inform you of the death of one of our Owensville High School students due to complications from a medical condition,” Hardy wrote. “Our thoughts and sympathies are with his family and friends. Our crisis response team members are available to meet with students individually and in groups over the coming days and weeks.”

Families who need to utilize resources should contact the high school office for additional assistance. Assistant Superintendent Dr. Staci Johnson said the district will be focused on supporting the student’s family and friends.

“We are trying to support the family moving forward. Our biggest priority is supporting the student’s family and those in our building who are friends of the student,” Johnson said. “Making sure we are checking in with them and helping them process it.”

According to the district’s letter to families, a funeral service is expected to happen locally.

“We strongly encourage you to accompany your child to the service if he or she wishes to attend,” Hardy wrote. “We encourage you to have a conversation with your child. This will give your child time to ask you questions and process at a developmentally appropriate level.”

Johnson said the district was notified Friday afternoon of the loss and sent the letter out soon after.

“Even though it’s summer, our counselors and family school liaisons will be available for any students who want to come by,” Johnson said. “Even if they are not in summer school, they can certainly do that.”

District officials did not elaborate on the student’s personal information or identity.