Vandalia Schools return to session today, after a weekend filled with tragedy.
On Saturday evening, returning from the Vandals football playoff game, four individuals were killed in a 2 vehicle accident on Illinois Route 185 in Montgomery County. Those killed were 72 year old Jackolyn C. Protz and 73 year old William H. Protz, both of Sullivan, and 14 year old Jenna Protz and 14 year old Holly Lidy of Vandalia. Both Jenna and Holly were Freshman at Vandalia High School. Mr. and Mrs. Protz were Jenna’s Grandparents and the parents of Vandalia High School Principal Randy Protz. And, Jenna was Mr. Protz’s youngest daughter.
In a statement, Vandalia Superintendent of Schools Dr. Jennifer Garrison says the school district’s thoughts and prayers are with the Lidy and Protz families. She adds their top priority is the well being of their students who are hurting and grieving. And, to that end, they will take several steps to assist them in dealing with the terrible loss. Dr. Garrison says they have activated their Crisis Counseling Team to be at the schools. And, she says they will meet with the staff to help them prepare to assist the students. Dr. Garrison also adds the sudden loss of life have a profound effect on young people so they will provide the necessary supports for the students and encourage their families to talk to their children about their feelings and how they are dealing with this tragedy.
Dr. Garrison also adds that “This loss affects everyone in our school family and in the Vandalia community. Our school family is heartbroken. We will do everything we can to help with the healing process and we appreciate our community’s continued support of our students.” And, in closing, Dr. Garrison says that “I request to you respect our students and staff who are grieving today and give the necessary space and privacy to do so.”
A Prayer Vigil was held at Vandalia High School on Sunday afternoon in front of a large crowd.
