ARCADIA, Indiana — The Hamilton Heights School Corporation is mourning the death of a school principal in the district.
Superintendent Dr. Derek Arrowood said in a letter to families that Hamilton Heights High School Principal Jarrod Mason died early Tuesday. No further details of his passing were included in the letter.
"Mr. Mason was a Hamilton Heights student, athlete, coach, and administrator. He was more than our principal. He was our colleague, our friend, and our biggest fan," Arrowood wrote. "Students and staff in our community have been positively impacted by Mr. Mason. This is a very difficult time for HHSC and our community. We will need to come together to care for and support each other."
Hamilton Heights High School students will have e-learning days on Wednesday and Thursday. The school will have counselors available in the school's Media Center from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. both days for those who need someone to talk to. Administrators say parents should reach out directly to their student's counselor if they need additional support.
The junior varsity and varsity girls basketball games will be played as scheduled Tuesday night, Arrowood announced, but high school athletics and other after school activities have been canceled through Friday, Nov. 15. The school's Fall Play, scheduled for this weekend, has also been postponed and will be rescheduled.
Students at the elementary and middle school will have in-person classes and after school activities, though counselors will also be available for students who need them during the school day.
"It is important to take time at home as family and friends to share your feelings openly with each other. Often telling a story about Mr. Mason involves a laugh because he was great at making us laugh," Arrowood wrote. "Sharing memories of him is important during this time of grieving. We will continue being here to help each other as a community in the coming days, weeks, and months."