PHILIPSBURG:--- On behalf of the Public Schools and the Ministry, Minister Jorien Wuite expresses her sincere condolence to the family, friends an, teachers of Kenrick Richardson on his passing. Kenrick, a student of the St. Maarten Vocational Training School, died Wednesday, January 17th in Colombia after a prolonged illness.
Kenrick was described by teachers as a very courteous, quiet, respectful student who would always encourage his classmates to do the right thing. His passing has sent a wave of sadness throughout the school. Student councilors visited the school on Friday to offer their services to any student or staff member who were having any difficulty with their grief. A debriefing session was first held with the school’s teachers followed by sessions with his classmates and friends. Councilors will visit the school again next week to follow-up on the mood of students to ensure that they are coping. The Minister commends the school management for their professional handling of this difficult situation.
“The loss of a child is always difficult” Minister Wuite expressed. “Kenrick was an exceptional young man who will be deeply missed by those who loved him. As a mother of two young men myself, my heart goes out to his foster parents, his siblings and to all those who knew him well. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”