MEDIA STATEMENT

The following letter was sent to Gahanna-Jefferson Public Schools families and staff on
February 7, 2021

Dear Gahanna-Jefferson students, staff and families,

I am saddened to share with our school family today that there was a terrible car accident
Saturday evening involving one of our GJPS families. It is with a heavy heart that I share with
you the passing of GLHS student, Feixiang Friend and GMSE student, Joshua Friend, as a
result of that accident. We extend our sincere sympathies to the Friend family, their friends and
loved ones.

This is a difficult time for our school community. We will ensure counselors are available
throughout the week to provide support for our students, teachers and staff. We are providing
counselors in each of Feixiang and Joshua's classes on Tuesday (hybrid gold) so their
classmates may share and grieve together.

We realize all people grieve in different ways and ask that you please reach out to school
counselors or the administrative staff if you believe you have a student in need of assistance. If
your child is at home on Monday, we welcome students to our buildings who need support from
our mental health team. We will also have virtual office hours for counseling services as
needed. Students can join a Google Meet with a district counselor during school hours. For
after school support, please contact the ​Safe Schools Hotline​.

To respect the privacy of the Friend family in this difficult situation, we will not be sharing any
additional details. Please keep our GJPS school community and the Friend family in your
thoughts and prayers.

Sincerely,

Steve Barrett
Superintendent
Gahanna-Jefferson Public Schools