September 23, 2020
Earlier today one of our school buses was involved in an accident along Route 10 in Hanover. While the cause of the incident is being fully investigated by local law enforcement, it appears that the driver of the bus experienced a severe medical distress situation and did not recover. In coordination with first responders arriving on the scene, all of our students were safely transferred to another bus, which was then involved in a collision with another vehicle. Again we are fortunate that there were no injuries in that accident, and all students were transported to school. Counselors have been in contact with our students and will continue to be available for any students who may need support.
Our sincere condolences go out to the driver’s family, friends, and colleagues. Heather Billingham cared deeply for her students and was committed to the safety of the riders in her charge. We have already heard from many parents who shared kind words about her as well. We are also very fortunate that our bus aide and some of our staff members who were traveling behind the bus on their way to work provided assistance and protected the students until first responders arrived. Finally, we should all be proud of our students, who responded remarkably well in what must have been a terribly frightening situation. Again, please contact your school counselor if your child requires any additional support as a result of this tragic accident.
Respectfully,
Jay Badams and Jamie Teague
