September 2, 2016
Dear Parents, Guardians and Staff:
It is with deep sadness that I share with you the tragic loss of Vanya Citrano, incoming 9th grade student at
Verona High School, who passed away yesterday.
News of such a loss affects our entire community, especially our children. This sad news may foster some
unresolved feelings in your child that he or she would like to discuss with you. You can help your child
by listening carefully, not over-reacting, accepting his or her feelings, and answering questions honestly
according to your beliefs. You know your child best and how to approach talking about loss. Please do
not hesitate to contact your child’s school if you need assistance. We are here to help your child and your
family. You may find the following information helpful on the Traumatic Loss Coalition for Youth website .
The Verona Public Schools has coordinated our crisis management team to help your children with their
reactions to this loss. Our district crisis team is comprised of counselors who will be available to talk with
your child, answer their questions, and provide additional resources, if needed. Our crisis team will be
holding counseling support for students, staff, and community members at Laning Avenue School on
Saturday, September 3rd from 10 am-1 pm and Monday, September 5th from 6 pm-8 pm.
If you have any questions or need additional assistance, you may consider contacting any of the following
resources listed below:
- Diane Travers, Mental Health Association, Montclair, NJ (973) 509-9777
- Vanessa Matos, Partnership for Children of Essex, West Orange, NJ (973) 323-3000
- Andrew Evangelista, The Center for Creative Lifestyles, Caldwell, NJ (973) 226-4773
- Platt Psychiatric Associates, Cedar Grove, NJ (973) 239-4848 ext. 201
- Dr. Mark Faber, Montclair, NJ (973) 746-6711
- NJ Regional Crisis Hotline (888) 222-2228
Our sincere condolences go out to the family and friends. Please join me in offering our thoughts and
prayers to the Citrano family in their time of sorrow.
Sincerely yours,
Rui Dionisio
Superintendent of Schools
