Update: Due to the current weather conditions, the Pawtucket School Department and all Pawtucket Public Schools will be closed on Wednesday, February 25.
Thursday, February 26 and Friday, February 27 will be Virtual Instructional Days and we will follow our established Virtual Instruction Day Plan.
In the wake of this week’s tragic act of violence at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena, a heartbreaking event that claimed lives and critically injured three others, including a beloved Shea High School staff member, the City of Pawtucket and the Pawtucket School Department stand united in grief, compassion, and steadfast support.
To allow school leaders time to connect with educators and prepare to support students, Shea High School will operate on a one-hour delayed start on Monday. In addition, counseling and behavioral health services will be made available to all Pawtucket students, families, school staff, and community members as we come together to heal and support one another during this profoundly difficult time.
The Pawtucket School Department immediately began mobilizing resources this week while students are on their winter recess. The district activated a comprehensive crisis response to prioritize the emotional well-being and safety of our school community. Central to this response has been the creation of a coordinated hub of resources and support for students, staff, and the Pawtucket community, ensuring access to mental health services, trusted adults, and safe spaces for connection.
Supports provided to date include:
- Opening Shea High School as a voluntary support hub for faculty, staff, students, and families
- On-site access to school counselors, social workers, psychologists, and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
services - Psychological First Aid and trauma-informed care resources
- Dedicated student and family support center with quiet reflection space and trusted staff presence
- Centralized online mental health resource hub with same-day counseling access and parent guidance from clinical professionals
- Expanded counseling services and additional social workers available when students return to school
- Trauma-informed guidance and talking points for educators to support classroom conversations
- Professional support spaces for school leaders and staff wellness resources, including confidential trauma counseling available for up to one year following a traumatic event at no cost to eligible staff
Beginning Monday, Shea High School students will return to school with:
- A one-hour delayed start for Shea High School to allow staff preparation and support
- Unified, compassionate messaging from school leaders
- Ongoing access to counseling, quiet spaces, and flexible academic expectations
“We remain focused on healing, compassion, and unity,” said Superintendent Randy Buck. “Our students, staff, and families will continue to receive the support they need —not only in this moment, but in the weeks and months ahead.”
Research-based crisis response guidance emphasizes the importance of safe spaces, clear communication, rapid mental health access, and support for educator well-being following traumatic events. Pawtucket’s response reflects these principles and our unwavering commitment to care for our community. Additional mental health resources are available at: https://www.psdri.net/blog/2026/02/18/mental-health-resources/
“Our hearts remain heavy as we continue to reflect on the tragedy at the Lynch Arena,” said Mayor Donald R. Grebien, City of Pawtucket. “In the face of unimaginable pain, our community has shown the very best of Pawtucket: compassion, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to one another. But our work is not done. We must continue to stand beside those who are grieving, those who are recovering, and those who are still struggling with the emotional toll of this violence. This is especially true for our young people, who may be feeling frightened, unsettled, or overwhelmed.”
“We stand in full support of our students, staff, and families during this incredibly difficult time,” said School Committee Chair Joanne Bonollo. “We are grateful for the swift action taken by district and city leaders to ensure our community has access to the care and resources needed to heal together. We realize that reaction to trauma may happen at different times for our students and staff. If and when that happens please reach out and we will assist you in receiving the support you need.”
Community members who are experiencing acute distress or grief are encouraged to please call 9-8-8 to be connected with local and national resources. This hotline serves as a suicide and crisis lifeline, but also provides support and referrals for anyone experiencing challenging reactions to disasters.
Additionally, Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHC) are available throughout the state, including Gateway Healthcare (101-103 Bacon Street, Pawtucket, RI), and are prepared to serve anyone who walks through the door, regardless of age, diagnosis, or insurance status. Visit governor.ri.gov/supporthub for additional information. This event is also a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of domestic violence, and events like this can be deeply triggering, particularly for survivors and families impacted by violence. A statewide 24/7 confidential helpline is available at 1-800-494-8100 for anyone in need of support in a domestic violence situation.
In closing, Mayor Grebien reminded the community to reach out if they are struggling: “To every resident, every family, and every student: please know that you are not alone. The City of Pawtucket is here for you. If you or someone you love needs support, I urge you to access these resources. Pawtucket has always been strongest when we stand together, care for one another, and move forward as one community.”
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