Dear Silver Creek families, students, staff, and school community,

It is with profound sadness that I share the news of the tragic and unexpected death of Keira Beckstrom (Koda), an 11th-grade student at our high school. Our deepest condolences, thoughts, and prayers are with Koda's family, friends, classmates, teachers, and all those who knew and loved her.

A loss like this is deeply difficult for our entire school community. We recognize that students and staff may experience a wide range of emotions, including grief, sadness, confusion, and anxiety. We want our students to know that they do not have to navigate these feelings alone.

We have enacted our crisis response plan and have additional counselors and support staff available in the library throughout the day today for any student who would like to talk, seek support, or simply have a safe place to be.

We also encourage families to check in with their children and allow them the space to ask questions and express their feelings. If you have concerns about your child or would like assistance in supporting them, please contact our Guidance Office at 716-934-2603, ext. 1123.

During this incredibly difficult time, we ask that our Silver Creek community come together with compassion, care, and support for the Beckstrom family and Koda's friends. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this unimaginable loss.

With deepest sympathy,
Dr. Katie Ralston
Superintendent of Schools