On Tuesday, Oct. 10, Grovetown High School families and staff were alerted by email to the death of a interrelated English Language Arts co-teacher at the school who taught grades 9-12.
At approximately 3:19 p.m., the Columbia County School District informed locals of Sonya Wells’ death, who also served as the junior varsity cheerleading coach and assistant girls basketball coach.
While the circumstances surrounding Wells’ death have not been released yet, the district’s email did include counseling and additional resources for those especially struggling with the co-teacher’s passing.
“Death at any age can be difficult to understand. We may feel a variety of emotions such as shock, sadness, confusion, or even anger. What is most important is that we care for and support each other,” the announcement stated.
In an effort to provide support to students and staff, the district said the school will be providing a counseling team which will be available to meet with students in the media center to assist in handling emotions.
“You might wish to share memories you have of Mrs. Wells. School counselors will be available in the coming days to help you if you feel a need to talk with someone. I want to encourage any students who may be struggling with this death, or perhaps even with the death of a family member or friend, to talk with us,” the email stated.
For staff, the school referenced the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) which is providing free, limited sessions for support. They can be reached at 855-387-9727.
In addition, the district reminded families of the Georgia Crisis & Access Line, which is available 24/7 at no cost, at 988.
For questions specific to the school or school response, families are being asked to contact the school at 706-477-2107.
“Any time death touches us, it is stressful. This death may be difficult to process for you and your child. It is for this reason that we especially want you to know of our care and support,” the email stated.
