‘Death is Not the Answer': Ocean City School Community Shaken Again by Suicide

For the second time in less than a year, the school community at Ocean City High School is grieving over the suicide of a student.

On Friday, the parents of John Delgrande, a sophomore, issued a statement about their son’s death.

“We don’t know any other way to say this, nor do we fully grasp what caused him to do this. We do feel that is important that if you bring this to the student body – they understand that there is nothing in life that can’t be overcome with listening, caring and understanding that everyone is different. Death is not the answer to solve one’s problems – ask for help and get help for those that ask”.

In December 2014, Ocean City High School student Maliha Chowdhury killed herself at home after suffering from depression and being bullied.

Once again Ocean City school district officials are faced with a school community in grief and shock.

Ocean City School Superintendent Kathleen Taylor sent this letter to parents and guardians on Friday.

October 16, 2015

Dear Parent(s) and/or Guardian(s):

It is with deep sadness that we inform you about the tragic loss of one of our high school students earlier this morning. Our hearts and thoughts are with the student’s family, friends and loved ones as they cope with this tremendous personal loss.

This loss is sure to raise many emotions, concerns, and questions from our school community, especially from some of our students. The members of the District’s Crisis Response Team, which is made up of professionals trained to help with the needs of students, parents, and school personnel, are present at the High School to provide support, comfort, and reassurance to students who need support.

Should students or parents need additional assistance, please call the OCHS Guidance Office at 609-399–1290, ext. 4214 during school hours or Cape Counseling at 609-465-5999. If you have a specific concern about your child, please call the District Student Services Office at 609-814–8753.

We have posted additional resources and contact information to provide parents with tools to discuss this complex matter with your child. Please visit our District website (oceancityschools.org) for more information. The information can be found under the District’s News Section listed as Grief Loss Resources and Dealing with Crisis – Contact Information or under the High School Parents Section as Health Services: Suicide Prevention.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact my office. We know you share our concern, support, and deepest sympathy for the family.

Sincerely,

Kathleen W. Taylor, Ed. D.

Superintendent