The community is mourning the sudden loss of a young Madison County High School student.
Ninth-grader Owen Colvin, 14, passed away suddenly Friday, Oct. 16. Colvin’s death has been contributed to suicide with reports coming out that bullying may have been involved. Numerous parents and former students have taken to social media to express their frustration with bullying in local schools.
“Enough is enough,” parent Heather Comer said. “Bullying prevention cannot just be something we talk about every October. It has to be something we practice, enforce and take seriously every single day.”
A letter was sent home to parents and guardians addressing the loss. Counselors and support staff were available Friday to assist any student who may need or want help processing the loss. The letter also included tips for parents and guardians to offer support and phone numbers for each school’s counseling staff.
“Saddened by this loss to our school community, we will continue to make every effort to support your child and our families,” school staff said. “Please keep the family in your thoughts.”
The school system utilizes the Positivity Project to promote character education and positive school culture. A portion of the program addresses the need for kindness and teaches about the harms caused by bullying. October is National Bullying Prevention Month. Additional resources are also available at stopbullying.gov.
Hope Inspired Therapy, located in Rochelle, has mental health support services available. School board member Sue Wood and Madison parent Britt Shankle are providing a local support line this weekend. They can be reached at (540) 614-2472. Anyone needing immediate support is also encouraged to contact the suicide prevention hotline by texting or dialing 988.
An online fundraiser has been created by former school board chairman Nita Collier to support the Colvin family. Donations can be made at https://www.gofundme.com/f/coming-together-for-owen-colvins-family. The Madison FFA will host a spaghetti dinner to raise funds for the Colvin family Oct. 22, 4-6 p.m. at Madison County High School. Dinners are $15 each and include spaghetti, salad, a roll and dessert. All of the proceeds will benefit the family.
