4 days ago
Covington Middle School student dies after end-of-year celebration: Austin school district
An Austin eighth grade student died Thursday morning after complications related to an incident at a school-related celebration, according to the Austin school district.
Vadir Gonzalez-Arias, who was a student at Covington Middle School, died after an undisclosed incident at an eighth grade celebration at Dick Nichols Park in Southwest Austin, according to the district. The park is less than three miles from Covington.
"Vadir was kind, caring, and approached each day with a positive attitude and a willingness to do what was asked of him," Principal Cedric Maddox said in a letter to families. "He treated his peers and teachers with genuine respect and made those around him feel seen and appreciated.
"We know that this news may be difficult for students to understand and process, and we are here to support them," Maddox said.
Covington's campus was open Friday as a counseling center from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. for students to talk to English and Spanish-speaking counselors and licensed mental health professionals, Maddox said.
The Austin district suggested the following community resources for those who need help:
The Christi Center – free information and support groups for youth and adults regarding grief and loss: 512-467-2600
Integral Care – 24 hours support for mental health crises or by appointment: 512-472-4357
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
Austin ISD Employee Assistance Program resources.
This story was updated to add a video.
This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Covington Middle School student dies after end-of-year celebration
