Pembroke district informs parents of student who passed away Thursday
Officials of the Pembroke Central School district announced on the district Web site this morning that a student died late Thursday afternoon (pdf).
The notification informs parents that tests for influenza came back negative and that the Genesee County Health Department determined it was safe for children to attend school today.
Counselors are available for students who need to talk about their friend's passing.
No further details were given.
Superintendent Gary Mix is currently meeting with district staff and not immediately available for comment.
UPDATE 10:36 a.m.: Superintendent Gary Mix just issued a written statement to the media, but included no new information apart from the prior statement. It says, "It is out of respect for the family of our student that we cannot release any additional information at this time."
UPDATE 10:59 a.m.: Randy Garney, interim health director for Genesee County, said he can't legally release any information. A source tells me the death occurred in Erie County. A woman I spoke to at the Erie Couny Health Department said that department isn't likely to release any information, and that nobody would even be able to return my call until late this afternoon.
UPDATE 2:50 p.m.: A spokesman for the Erie County Health Department just called. He referred me back to Gensee County, saying that even though the death occurred in Erie County, "it's Genesee County public health case."
UPDATE 3:10 p.m.: Gary Mix just released this statement: "As an update, in our most recent consultation with the Genesee County Health Department and the New York State Department of Health, the District has been informed that the cause of death for the Pembroke Central School student is still to be determined."
UPDATE 3:30 p.m.: I e-mailed Randy Garney asking for more information. Here is his response: "This is a pending investigation. Due to HIPPA Act, by Federal Law, I can not share any patient medical information. However I will tell you that the NYSDOH or the GCHD has never ruled out influenza as a cause. "
Full announcement after the jump:
It is with a great deal of sadness and sympathy that we are notifying you that one of our
students passed away late Thursday afternoon.
Medical tests did indicate that the influenza screen came back negative, therefore ruling
out the flu.
In consultation with the school district’s physician, who in turn consulted with the
Genesee County Health Department, it was determined that it is safe and appropriate to
have school in session today.
The student’s principal, Mr. Calderon did personally contact the parents of the child’s
immediate classmates to inform them of the loss of a dear friend on Thursday evening.
Plans have been made to provide counseling services for our students who may wish to
talk with a counselor.
If you should have questions please feel free to contact your building principal or school
nurse.
Please keep this family in your thoughts and prayers.