Balloons for beloved classmate
Pupils from a Palmerston North school have delivered an emotional send off to their late 8-year-old classmate.
Cloverlea School pupils and staff gathered on the school’s grounds on Friday to show their love and support for Justin Reid, who died after falling through the roof of a building at the Herbert Ave school on November 4.
Reid, who was playing with friends and his brother when the tragic accident occurred, was rushed to hospital with serious head injuries, but died a few days later.
During the Friday ceremony, pupils released green balloons, Justin’s favourite colour, to symbolise their support for his loved ones and to remember their classmate, who was described by family members as a cheeky and loving boy.
Principal Leiana Lambert said the pupils had come up with a range of ideas they thought would show their aroha for Justin and his family.
Other ideas included a mufti day with the koha going to his family and planting a special flower or tree, she said.
‘‘We are looking at putting some of these ideas in action over the next week.’’
Lambert said the school also held a blessing, with a Ma¯ ori elder and Justin’s family present.
The Ministry of Education’s Traumatic Incident Team spent three days at Cloverlea School to support staff, family and pupils.
‘‘We have been overwhelmed with the support from schools across New Zealand who send the Cloverlea community their condolences and thoughts at this time,’’ Lambert said.
On Tuesday, Justin’s sister, Sahana Rose, said his coffin would be lined in green for his funeral service, which was held on Friday at the Lychway Chapel in Palmerston North.