Clarksville, Tenn.–Clarksville-Montgomery County Schools Director Dr. Jean Luna-Vedder has issued a statement following Friday’s tragic accident that killed two students and injured several students and staff on the way to a field trip in Jackson. Vigils have been held and flags are flying at half-staff for Middle School Students Zoe Davis and Arianna Pearson and everyone involved.
A STATEMENT FROM THE DIRECTOR OF SCHOOLS
“On a day marked by both deep sorrow and reflection, I am profoundly moved by the unity shown by our CMCSS community. Our counselors, social workers, and school psychologists are providing steady and compassionate care to students, staff, and families. They will serve as a vital source of comfort during this difficult time. Faculty and staff surround those who are hurting with a safe space to grieve. Time and again, we witnessed students show empathy for their peers, even though they were also hurting. I could not be more proud of the way our district has come together.
To our broader community, please accept my heartfelt gratitude. The outpouring of support has been deeply felt throughout the halls of Kenwood Middle School. We are fortunate to be part of a community where citizens, organizations, and leaders respond with generosity and care when it is needed most. As Mayor Golden shared, “The resiliency and heart of our residents are truly remarkable.”
I ask that you continue to remember the Kenwood community. We are committed to ensuring that long-term supports are in place to care for our students, families, and staff. As Mayor Pitts emphasized, “There will be needs that stretch far beyond this day, this week, or even this year.” While the path ahead will take time, I am confident in our collective strength and shared commitment to support one another as we heal together.
You will often hear members of the Kenwood community say, “Once a Knight, always a Knight.” This sentiment reflects a lasting bond among current and former students, faculty, staff, and families. A unity grounded in relationships, care, and resilience. In this moment, we are all Knights. Let us stand together as one community, united in our shared purpose to care for our students.”