BY MAIRE O’NEILL
maire@losalamosreporter.com

The Los Alamos Public Schools community received sad and tragic news Wednesday morning from Supt. Kurt Steinhaus that Carson Cannon, a Los Alamos High School junior died Tuesday from a fall in a canyon near White Rock.

“This news comes as a shock and the loss will raise many concerns, questions and emotions for our school community.  In times of crisis, we can come together to support each other and to help his fellow students, teachers and family work through grief,” Steinhaus said in an email to parents.

He said Carson has been a member of the LAPS school community for many years.

“He attended Pinon Elementary School, Los Alamos Middle School and the High School. Carson will always be remembered for his sweet nature and kindness toward others,” Steinhaus said.

Steinhaus encouraged parents and guardians to talk to their children and allow them to freely express even difficult or uncomfortable emotions without judgment.

“Discussing thoughts and feelings about this situation is an important step toward helping our children understand what happened. If you would like to speak with a counselor, please feel free to call the LAHS Counseling Department at (505) 663-2797. In addition, local therapists and members of the faith community have informed us of their availability,” his email said.

Steinhaus said during this time, as the school community copes with grief, LAPS is providing counseling and bereavement support for all students and staff. He said district staff have been mobilized and a support plan has been developed.

“Thank you for respecting the family’s right to privacy during this difficult time. Our condolences go out to the Cannon family and all of Carson’s friends and classmates,” he said.