Deering High School Community,

We are writing to share difficult news affecting our Deering High School community. On Saturday evening, three Deering High School students and a peer from a neighboring community were involved in a serious vehicle-pedestrian accident on Warren Avenue. Regrettably, the student from the neighboring community passed away.

Our thoughts and hearts are with these students, their families, their loved ones, and everyone in our school community affected by this event.

We know Portland is a close-knit community, and news of an incident like this can travel quickly and bring understandable concern. At this time, out of respect for the privacy and wishes of the students and their families, we cannot share additional details. We ask our community to respect their privacy and to refrain from sharing unverified information or speculation, particularly on social media.

We are closely monitoring the situation and remain in communication with those involved. We will share additional information with our community when appropriate and when information has been confirmed.

We recognize that news like this can create worry, stress, and anxiety for students and adults alike. Our Student Support Team, including counselors and social work providers, will be ready and available Monday morning to support students who may need additional care. In the meantime, if you notice that your child is feeling more anxious than usual or behaving differently, we encourage you to use this resource for guidance on talking with your child about scary or stressful events. We will continue to support the Deering community as we navigate this together.

Please keep these students, their families, and the entire Deering High School community in your thoughts and care.

With care,

Aris Ayala Cruz Principal,

Deering High School