A Delaware County community is reeling following the suicide of one of its children.
A letter was sent out to parents and guardians of students at Paxon Hollow Middle School in Broomall confirming that 12-year-old Skyler Baffa took his own life Thursday.
"This letter is to sadly inform you that a student, Skyler Baffa, passed away on Thursday, December 18," said the letter.
The letter, sent to the school community principal Dr. Steve Subers, was also posted to the Marple Newtown School District's website.
It goes on to emphasize the importance of discussing Skyler's death with their children while making sure to explain that suicide is not "a positive response to life's challenges."
"Please join us in mourning the loss of Skyler, while not glamorizing, and thereby positively reinforcing the method by which he died," read the letter. "We must reinforce positive options our children can employ when life is difficult as well as how they can access these options."
Additional counselors were provided Thursday to help students deal with the loss. The school will continue to provide support for its student body for as long as it's needed, according to the school's website.
Information on loss and suicide was also provided for helping parents deal with their children's grief.
The circumstances surrounding Skyler's suicide are unknown at this time.
"Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Skyler," said Subers.
SUICIDE PREVENTION: If you know someone who needs help, you can contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
