DJ Graham Obituary Shenango PA; Game Postponed After Shenango High School Student DJ Graham Death

The Shenango High School community was struck by tragedy this week as news broke of the sudden death of a 17-year-old student on Tuesday evening. The devastating event has sent ripples of grief and sorrow throughout the small school and its surrounding area.

In response, the school administration, led by Superintendent Dr. Joseph McCormick, made the difficult decision to postpone the varsity football game scheduled for Friday against Ellwood City. The decision reflects the need to allow the students, staff, and wider community the space and time to grieve the loss of one of their own.

“We are deeply saddened to acknowledge that a 17-year-old student at Shenango High School tragically passed away yesterday evening,” Dr. McCormick expressed in a heartfelt statement. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the student’s family and friends.” His words encapsulate the deep sense of loss felt by the entire school community, as they grapple with the unexpected and heartbreaking loss of a young life.

The Shenango Athletic Director, Jan Budai, met with the football team and coaches on Wednesday afternoon to discuss the best course of action. After careful consideration, it was determined that postponing Friday’s game was the most appropriate response.

Budai emphasized the importance of giving the team, as well as the entire student body, the opportunity to process their emotions and come together during this difficult time. “It’s important for us to prioritize the emotional well-being of our students and staff,” Budai noted. “The game can wait. Right now, our focus is on supporting one another.”

The game, originally scheduled to be a nonconference matchup against Ellwood City, has been put on hold, leaving the Wolverines also without a game this week. Ellwood City coach Dan Bailey expressed his deep sympathies upon hearing the news. “It’s a tragic loss,” Bailey said. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family. We fully support Shenango’s decision to postpone the game, as some things are far more important than football.”

The school district has swiftly activated its crisis response team to provide immediate support to students and staff. On Wednesday, the team was made available to meet with students, offering a safe space for them to express their feelings and begin the healing process.

The district plans to continue providing these resources in the coming weeks, recognizing that grief can be a long and complicated journey. Dr. McCormick emphasized the importance of communication during this time, encouraging students and parents to share their feelings with one another and reach out for additional help if needed.

“We extend our sincere condolences to the student’s family and friends and will make every effort to have grief resources and support available to our students and school community,” McCormick assured.

In his statement, McCormick also highlighted the heightened risk that children struggling with mental health may face when exposed to the death of a peer. He urged families to remain vigilant and supportive, ensuring that their children have access to the help they need during this difficult time.

The district has provided contact information for Angelus Therapeutic Services, a local resource that offers professional counseling and support. Additionally, McCormick encouraged the use of the National Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255, or the option to call or text 988, for anyone in crisis.