Norfolk Public Schools Mourns Death of Two Students and Provides Additional Resources to Lake Taylor High School Students and Staff

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 23, 2026
MEDIA CONTACTS:
Tiffany Whitfield, Communications and Community Engagement 
757-628-3470
NPSNews@nps.k12.va.us

Norfolk, VA – Norfolk Public Schools is deeply saddened by the sudden loss of two students from Lake Taylor High School. Both students were rising seniors and very involved in various school-related activities and will be greatly missed at the start of this 2026-2027 school year. Our hearts are with their families, friends, classmates, teachers, and everyone in the school community who is grieving during this incredibly difficult time.

"We grieve with the families of these students during their sudden deaths and more than anything else right now we need to surround each other with compassion and love," said Superintendent Dr. Jeff Rose. "To know that both of these young men were on the cusp of graduating and starting the next phase into adulthood gives all of us tremendous pain. To every student who may be struggling please know that you matter, your life has value and it is okay to ask for help."  

The school division is working closely with the Lake Taylor High to ensure that counseling and additional supports are available for students and staff as they prepare to return to school on Monday, August 24.

"I want the families, friends, and staff at Lake Taylor High School to know that we will support one another in any way possible," said Principal Brandon Bell, Lake Taylor High School. "We know that members of our school community may experience these losses in different ways, and we are committed to surrounding each other with care and support in the days and weeks ahead."

"It is imperative that we give each other extra grace during this time," said Dr. Rose. "Let us unite and honor these two young lives by caring for one another, checking on one another to create an even-more connected community where everyone feels seen, heard, valued, and supported." 

The entire Norfolk Public Schools community is asked to honor the families' privacy during these tragic losses.

For additional support please be aware of the following resources:

• Additional school counselors, school psychologists, and school social workers will be on-site at Lake Taylor High School beginning Monday, August 24 and beyond.
• Virtual Peace of Mind (free online mental health support)
• Crisis Lifeline: Call, text, or chat Lifeline at 988 (for Mental Health crisis)
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 or text NAMI to 741741

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