ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) – A 6-year-old Paulding County elementary school student died on Wednesday during a field trip to a farm in neighboring Polk County.
The student, who attended McGarity Elementary School in Hiram, went missing during the trip to Carlton Farms in Rockmart, Polk County officials said in a statement. She was later found in a pool by the property and rushed to the hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
“Our hearts are with the student’s family and loved ones,” the school’s principal, Jamesa Hodge, wrote in a letter to parents. “As our school community processes this tragedy, we will offer counseling and bereavement support services to all students and staff.”
You can read Hodge’s full letter below:
Dear McGarity Elementary School Community,
It is with profound sadness that I share that one of our students has passed away while on a class field trip to Carlton Farms in Rockmart. You may see reports of this tragic incident in the news media in the coming days.
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.
For many children, being at home with family will bring the greatest comfort as they begin to understand and grieve this loss. If you prefer to keep your child at home tomorrow to help them through this, we support your decision and will consider it an excused absence.
Some students may have difficulty coping, especially those who have experienced other losses or who have not faced grief before. If you feel your student is struggling, please take time to talk with them and encourage them to express their feelings.
Our staff remains committed to supporting every student’s emotional well-being, and our counselors are available to help. Please don’t hesitate to contact the school if your child needs additional support.
This is a difficult time for all of us, but I know our McGarity community will come together with compassion and care as we remember our classmate.
Please keep the family in your thoughts and prayers during this profoundly sad time.
Polk County police were called to the scene and are investigating the death. According to officers, the girl wasn’t breathing when she was found, and bystanders and medical personnel tried to save her life.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is performing the autopsy.
Atlanta News First has reached out to Carlton Farms for a comment, but has not yet heard back.
This is a developing story. Check back with Atlanta News First for updates.
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