Tributes
It may help to celebrate the life of the person who died. This can help people get through the first stages of the grieving process because it allows them to remember and share how special the person was.
Before you plan any type of tribute or memorial activity, check with your principal or superintendent and the parents/families of the person who died. Some districts discourage or simply don’t allow any kind of memorial or tribute service at the school.
The
National Association of School Psychologists suggests that if you are able and do want to plan a tribute activity, make it a positive experience—a celebration of the person’s life and a message for all the other students about living life to the fullest.
Guidelines for Tributes- Keep it brief and appropriate to the age of the students.
- Include music and student performances.
- Select speakers who are well known and respected by the students.
- Ask permission of and invite family members to attend.
- All staff and students should attend unless parents specifically object. Tributes can unite the school community and send the message that each individual is important. If some students choose not to attend, provide a quiet activity as an alternative.
- Balloons and candles are effective ways to promote a positive message that acknowledges pain and sadness but is also hopeful for the future.
- After a tribute service, students should return to their classrooms for at least a short time to talk with each other, their teacher, or a mental health staff member.