The Washington-Liberty Family Mourns the Loss of One of Our Own

Dear Washington-Liberty Family,

Generals, it is with great sadness that I inform you of the death of one of our own. Adrian Vega-Alcantara, a student in the 11th grade, passed away suddenly of heart failure on August 10, 2020. Adrian was beloved by his fellow students and teachers. It is important for students, staff, and our community to have the necessary support to deal with what is a tremendous loss for the entire Washington-Liberty Family.

APS Student Services staff are available to parents and teachers for consultation about any social-emotional concerns that arise for students. Below is the information about how these staff can be reached. Families may call or text anytime, Monday-Friday, from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. to reach staff in the Office of Student Services.

Washington-Liberty Group

Call or text 571-255-0631 or Landline 703-228-6046 or email SchoolSocialWork@apsva.us.

The Arlington Department of Human Services, Child and Family Services, Behavioral Health division is available at 703-228-1560. All appointments will be conducted virtually (Telehealth or phone). Families may call 703-228-1560 with questions and to schedule an appointment for an intake. Anyone experiencing an urgent mental health need is encouraged to contact Children’s Regional Crisis Response (CR2) (844-627-4747) and anyone experiencing a psychiatric emergency is encouraged to contact Emergency Services (703-228-5160).

Counseling staff will be available to meet with students in the days to follow. We want to assure our community that even in the midst of this pandemic, we will provide support to all who need it. As beginning of the year plans move forward, individual needs of students at this difficult time are paramount. Students who knew Adrian may experience grief and you may see the following behaviors: tearfulness, vivid dreams, irritability, clinginess, withdrawal, physical complaints, fear of dying, or difficulty concentrating. Parents, it is important to provide your child with reassurance and the opportunity to grieve. If these behaviors persist, please contact your child’s counselor.

Funeral arrangements are ongoing at this time and we will be working in concert with our PTA to provide whatever support would be of assistance to the family. We will remember Adrian fondly for his love of family, especially his mom and his brother, friends, and anime art. Our deepest sympathies go out to the family and friends of Adrian. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or concerns.

Sincerely,

Antonio Hall

Principal