Two children who died on Monday morning were students in the Kansas City, Kansas, Public Schools.
The two children who died were students at M.E. Pearson Elementary and Central Middle School, according to a spokesman. They and their mother were found dead at a fire scene Monday morning at their home near North Mill and Ridge. The Kansas City, Kansas, Police Department is investigating it as a homicide, and an arrest was announced Monday night.
“Our hearts go out to the family for their loss, and we want the community to come together in this time of need and sadness, and show support to the family,” said Edwin Birch, executive director of communications for the school district.
In addition, the district is working with its community health partners to assist and help students deal with grief, he said. Students are currently on holiday break and will return to school on Monday, Jan. 6.
Grief counselors are expected to be on site when students return to school. Support services are also available sooner by calling mental health professionals.
A message posted on the district’s social media site encouraged parents or children in the district who want to talk to an expert to call the district’s student services office at 913-279-2248 or 913-909-9249, or to call PACES at 913-328-4600.
The principal of Central Middle School posted a letter on social media to parents. One of the students who died was 14 years old and in the eighth grade at Central Middle.
“At this time, we ask that you keep her entire family and friends in your prayers,” he wrote in the letter. His letter also added the above information about how to contact support services.