We at Russellville Independent School District have suffered a terrible loss, and we are sad to inform you that two of our students, a second grader, Sebastian Davis, in Mrs. Holly Gilbert’s class at Stevenson Elementary School and a preschool student, Olivia Leek, in Ms. Kasie Mason’s class at Russellville Preschool Academy, died as a result of an automobile accident in Indiana last night.

In addition, Trinity Davis, a third grader in Mrs. Nicole Pedigo’s class at Stevenson Elementary, was also involved in the accident and is being treated for injuries at this time.

Anytime a student experiences a death, it will naturally cause anxiety and confusion. Our school counselor as well as counselors from the Green River Regional Education Cooperative has been and will continue to be available to students and staff throughout this crisis as needed.

There are also some things that parents can do at home to support your child:

Please encourage your child to ask questions. This may be difficult because you won’t have all of the answers. Answer honestly, even if it’s “I don’t know.” It is helpful for your child to just be able to talk.

Your child may wish to record their feelings in a journal or write a letter to their friend.

Some children cope by listening to music, reading, or exercising.

Your child may also wish to speak to one of the counselors here at the school.

If you have additional questions or concerns, you may contact Kim McDaniel with our crisis team at 270-726-8405. Please keep this family in your thoughts and prayers.