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Counseling services are being made available today at North Albany Middle School following a tragic accident over the weekend. On Saturday afternoon (December 7), a 12-year-old male student died after falling through the ice on a partially frozen lake in Washington Park. An 11-year-old female student attempted to rescue him but also fell through the ice. She was taken to Albany Med and was last reported in critical condition.
The names of the students involved have not been released, and an investigation into the incident is ongoing. In response to the tragedy, the City School District of Albany is providing crisis services at North Albany Middle School and the elementary schools the students previously attended. Superintendent Joseph Hochreiter expressed his condolences, stating, "Our hearts go out to the families of these students at this incredibly difficult time."
For those seeking additional support, the Crisis Text Line offers free and confidential services. The school district serves approximately 8,800 students across 16 schools, including 12 elementary schools, three middle schools, and Albany High School.