The Bellefonte Area school district is mourning the loss of one of their own after a tragic drowning accident over the weekend at Raystown Lake in Huntingdon County.
Officials say 16-year-old Nathan Dan passed away Saturday after drowning while swimming at the lake.
School officials say the return to the classroom was rough for everyone. The athletic director confirmed that Dan was a lacrosse player and that the team plans to honor him by wearing a sticker on their helmets with his number 15 on it.
State police say they were called to Raystown Lake just after 5 p.m. Saturday after the teen reportedly went underwater and never came back up.
In a letter sent out by principal Mike Fedisson on Sunday night, he said, “I know that he deeply touched the lives of many. The passing of such a bright and energetic young individual is an immense loss and has left a void in all of us.”
Fedisson also says he addressed students and faculty on Monday morning, and that they postponed the Keystone exam testing that was scheduled to begin Monday.
School officials add that counseling is available for students that need it, and that the school is working with local organizations for students and families that are interested in individual and group support.
Principal Fedisson also says that they have social workers on site, along with representatives from the Jana Marie Foundation for additional support.
A GoFundMe has also been created to support the family during this time.