Two students attending Soddy Daisy High School died recently, according to a call from school officials to the school community Thursday evening.
Principal Angie Cass sent out a message to families and faculty and said extra counselors would be available at the school Friday to support students.
The principal's recorded message said, "It is with great sadness that I am calling this evening to share with you that two of our precious students passed away in recent days. They were a special part of our school family and we will miss them very much. I wanted to make you aware of this news and let you know counselors and administrators are available to support our students. Our counseling team will continue to be available throughout the school year if your child or children need to talk with someone. Please keep these families and our school community in your thoughts and prayers as we go through this most difficult journey.
"We love you and are grateful for each one of you."
Hamilton County Schools spokesperson Cody Patterson told the Times Free Press in a Friday email that the two students died recently, but did not provide personal information about the students or the circumstances around their deaths.
"We can confirm the recent deaths of two HCS students," Patterson said. "We are absolutely heartbroken and lifting up a grieving family in prayer during this agonizing season. Our counselors are offering support to students and staff as they process this devastating situation."
Contact Anika Chaturvedi at achaturvedi@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6592.