Middletown Public Schools is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of three of its community’s beloved members in a plane crash that occurred this past weekend in Vermont. Paul Pelletier, the remarkable Aerospace and Manufacturing teacher at Middletown High School, Delilah Van Ness, a cherished Middletown High School Sophomore, and her mother, Susan Van Ness, were aboard the small plane that crashed. The cause of the accident is currently under investigation by the Vermont State Police.
"This unimaginable loss has left a void in our hearts and our community," said Dr. Alberto Vázquez Matos, Superintendent of Middletown Public Schools. "Paul, Delilah, and Susan were special individuals whose absence is already being felt throughout our district and city." A letter from the Superintendent to the MPS Community can be found here.
In response to this tragedy, Middletown Public Schools has implemented the following measures:
Middletown High School will be closed on Tuesday, September 10, 2024.
All MHS Fall athletic competitions scheduled for September 10, 2024, will be postponed and rescheduled. Athletic practices on this day will be optional for student-athletes.
Crisis teams will be available at Middletown High School during normal school hours on September 10 to provide support, counseling, and assistance to students and staff.
Support staff will be present at all schools in the district to offer additional help as needed.
The school district encourages anyone in need of support to reach out to the available resources. Information on how to discuss death and unexpected tragedy with children can be found on the district's website on the "Resources for Challenging Conversations" page, under “death and unexpected tragedy”.
As the community grieves, Middletown Public Schools calls for unity and mutual support. The district aims to honor the memory of Paul, Delilah, and Susan by upholding their legacies of compassion, dedication, and kindness.
