On Thursday, August 28, a student tragically passed away during an all-school activity. As a close-knit boarding community, Rio Lindo Adventist Academy canceled classes and activities through the weekend. After consulting with counselors, school administrators decided to resume classes and activities today, Tuesday, September 2, to restore routine and provide structured support.
Beginning Thursday evening and continuing through the weekend, mental health professionals provided support to students and staff. Adventist Health Ukiah and the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office sent chaplains. Area pastors came to campus and joined students and staff in prayer and worship. A chaplain noted this was especially effective because a strong support network already existed on campus.
On Sabbath, four Paws As Loving Support (PALS) “Comfort Teams” (therapy dogs and handlers) offered what they called “soft paws and gentle support.”
On Monday, September 1, the Sonoma County School Crisis Response System of Support team collaborated with Rio educators and staff to deliver Trauma-Informed Teaching sessions, providing talking points for classroom conversations, and connecting staff with county resources—support that will benefit the school for years to come.
Lauren Heinrich, Northern California Conference (NCC) School Mental Health Clinician, and Albert Miller, Vice President for Education, are coordinating ongoing counseling for those who request it. “Our purpose right now is to support our students and staff the best way we can,” Miller said. “On behalf of the Rio community, thank you for your prayers and the many offers of help.”
As one parent observed, Rio is the best place for their child right now because of the campus’s community of care. Experts agree that healing from trauma occurs in the community, not in isolation. Rio is focused on restoring relationships, strengthening community, and walking together toward recovery. We appreciate your continued prayers.
Media inquiries: NCC Communications Office — laurie.trujillo@nccsda.com | (916) 886-5642.
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