​Bluewater school board responds to tragic death of Walkerton school teacher, four students

Officials with the Bluewater District School Board, on behalf of the staff, trustees, students, families and the community, have expressed their deepest sorrow, following the tragic events of Friday afternoon.

A teacher and four students from Walkerton District Community School were killed in a motor vehicle accident near London, while returning from a sporting event.

The message, from chairperson Jane Thomson and education director Lori Wilder, was shared Saturday on Facebook.

“At this time, our focus is on supporting and respecting the privacy of the grieving families,” states the message. “Please join us in holding them closely in our hearts and thoughts.

“This is a devastating loss for the school, the local community, and our entire board. We recognize that many individuals in other communities across Bluewater also have close connections with those lost in this tragedy, and their families. It is important to acknowledge how this tragedy is impacting them as well. We are all here to support one another.

“Our board’s mental health staff and tragedy response team are being deployed to support students and staff as they grieve and prepare to navigate an incredibly difficult and emotional time in the days and weeks ahead.

“Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families directly impacted by Friday’s tragedy as they deal with unimaginable grief and sadness during this time of profound loss.”