Schools

New Canaan High Senior Dies, Mourned By School Community

Superintendent Bryan Luizzi announced the "unimaginable loss" over the weekend, and NCHS had a two-hour opening Monday in response.

A New Canaan High School student died over the weekend, according to district officials.
A New Canaan High School student died over the weekend, according to district officials. (RJ Scofield/Patch Staff)

NEW CANAAN, CT — The community is mourning the "unimaginable loss" of a New Canaan High School student who died over the weekend, according to district officials.

In a letter sent to families Sunday, Superintendent Bryan Luizzi described NCHS senior Elliott Kropf as "a strong student, an excellent athlete, a kind young man and a wonderful friend" who is already "sadly missed by all who knew and loved him."

Further details about Kropf's passing were not shared by the district.

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"Such unimaginable loss is difficult to process," Luizzi said in the letter, "and we want to ensure that our students, staff and families have access to the support they need during this difficult time."

In response, the high school operated on a two-hour delay Monday morning to provide time for Kropf's friends to gather together and, if desired, speak with the district's dedicated counselors and staff, according to Luizzi.

Find out what's happening in New Canaanwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The district also provided families with a list of helpful resources for children and adults dealing with loss and grief.

Luizzi also noted counselors will be available throughout the week and encouraged students in need of further assistance to reach out to New Canaan Public Schools.

"My heart breaks for Elliott, his family and all who knew and loved him," Luizzi said. "Together, let's keep them all in our thoughts and prayers as we support one another during this challenging time."


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