A community is grieving after a six-year-old girl tragically drowned in a swimming pool while on a school field trip in Rockmart, Georgia, on Wednesday. An investigation has been launched into the circumstances surrounding the death of the young student from McGarity Elementary School.
The child, who has not been publicly identified, was reported missing around noon on Wednesday by a staff member during a visit to Carlton Farms in Rockmart.
According to a press release from the Polk County public information office, the search ended in heartbreak when the youngster was “located unresponsive in a pool beside the residence.” The exact nature or location of “the residence” mentioned in the statement remains unclear.
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Bystanders immediately initiated life-saving measures until professional medical staff arrived at the scene to take over. The student was then transported to a local hospital, where she was later pronounced dead.
“During this time, as the school community processes the tragic news and copes with grief, we will offer counseling and bereavement support services to all students and staff,” the school district said in a statement to the Tampa Free Press. “The school district offers its deepest condolences to family and friends during this extremely painful time.”
McGarity Elementary School Principal Jamesa Hodge addressed the tragedy.
“Our hearts are with the student’s family and loved ones. As our school community processes this tragedy, we will offer counseling and bereavement support services to all students and staff,” Hodge wrote in the letter, which also detailed how parents can comfort their kids at home and how the staff will support “every student’s emotional well-being.”
“Our counselors are available to help,” she continued. “Please don’t hesitate to contact the school if your child needs additional support.”
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