Dear Sunnyvale ISD Family:

We are deeply saddened to inform you that one of our 7th grade students, Brantley Alford, has passed away due to injuries sustained in a December 7^th all-terrain vehicle accident. We extend our heartfelt sympathy to his family and friends, and especially to his older brother, Tanner, who attends SHS.

Brantley was, as his mother describes him, “… a ray of sunshine,” to all who knew him. He enjoyed playing select baseball and was a member of the SMS choir. Mrs. Alford said that he never enjoyed school more than during his time at SMS. Brantley was smart, outgoing, talented and his teachers absolutely adored him.

A visitation is planned for Thursday, December 18^th at New Hope Funeral Home in Sunnyvale from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. A memorial service will be held on Friday, December 19^th at 2:00 p.m. at Sunnyvale First Baptist Church.

Support for the Alford family has been established through a crowd funding website. If you’d like to contribute, please visit http://www.gofundme.com/ip3lxo?pc=mb_em . 

Students and staff will react in different ways to the loss of one of our Sunnyvale school community members, some more intensely than others. SISD is here to support them in any way.  Crisis counselors will be on hand for students and their child as it is important for students to express their feelings in a safe environment. Traumatic events like the loss of a friend or peer can trigger emotional responses that may require counseling support. If your child is exhibiting any of the following signs, please contact a school counselor, administrator, or therapist:

·               Restlessness, nervous behavior

·               Trouble concentrating

·               Difficulty sleeping, frequent nightmares

·               Fear of being alone

·               Repeatedly asking questions

·               Concentrating on previous losses and events

·               Change in eating or sleeping habits

·               Loss of interest in activities that he or she previously found pleasure in doing

·               Significant changes in grades 

If changes in your child’s behavior or personality concern you, please contact your child’s campus front office to speak with your child’s school counselor or administrator. SISD wants to make sure that every student receives the support and assistance he or she needs to cope with this loss. Please do not hesitate to seek our support. 

Sincerely,