January 13, 2020

Dear Parent/Guardian:
Today, we have been informed that Blaine Ruppenthal, a Grade 12 student at Kelvin High School passed away. The
reported cause of death is complications due to influenza. We are shocked and deeply saddened by the news of his
passing.
Since many students and staff are affected by Blaine’s passing, our School Crisis Response Plan was activated with
input from administration, guidance and Clinical Support Services. This team is visiting Blaine’s classes to offer
assistance to students and staff. In addition, a counselling centre has been set up in the guidance area, where
those students most affected could receive further supports. It is hoped that by providing a supportive place for
expressions of grief, the students and staff will be able to understand and cope with the loss.
Just as we have encouraged students to express their feelings here at school, we also encourage you to discuss the
death at home. Listening to your child and acknowledging their feelings will be helpful. As each child and their
experiences are different, the need for discussion and support will also vary.
Blaine’s family has asked us to share a link to a memorial page for him with our school community so that friends
can share their memories and condolences. The webpage is called Prayers for Blaine Ruppenthal on Facebook.
Should you have any questions about your child’s response or need any assistance, please feel free to call the
school.

Yours truly,
Maria Silva
Principal
CC: Brad Corbett, Director
Fatima Mota, Superintendent
Radean Carter, Senior Information Officer