A Message to the Novato Community Following a Tragic Loss
July 21, 2025
Dear Novato Community and Staff,
On Saturday night, in Petaluma, there was a single car accident involving four youths. One of the youths attended Novato High School and tragically lost their life in the accident. As we address the needs of our students, staff, and families, we do so from a place of compassion. We must join together as a community as we experience this tragic event, stay focused on the students involved, and hold each other near with unconditional love and support.
To support students in processing this tragic news, mental health support will be available at Novato High School library on Wednesday July 23, at 11:00-1:00 pm.
During this two-hour session, Novato High School students will have the opportunity to speak with mental health professionals and participate in a guided process that helps them understand and navigate their emotional responses. Local resources for follow-up support options will also be made available to families.
We also have a plan to support students and staff at Novato High when we return to school on August 21, 2025. Multiple agencies beyond NUSD are providing support services including Marin County Office of Education and North Marin Community Services.
When a serious situation occurs with our youth, we know our students may experience a variety of emotions and feelings. Therefore, we wanted to share resources for you and your family to access at any time.
Local Counseling Services and Support
Marin Behavioral Health and Recovery Services Access Line https://www.marinbhrs.org/ Call 1-888-818-1115 for mental health or substance use assessment (for Medi-Cal recipients or those who are uninsured)
North Marin Community Services (NMCS) https://www.northmarincs.org/ Call 1-415-892-1643, ext. 239 for a confidential phone assessment for mental health support
NMCS Teen Clinic https://www.northmarincs.org/mental-health/teen-mental-health/ Call or text 1-415-985-5012 Free, confidential clinic for teens ages 12-25 to access
Bay Area Community Resources (BACR) https://www.bacr.org/ Call 1-415-526-7688
Marin Community Clinics https://www.marinclinic.org/locations/novato-campus/ Call 415-448-1500 to schedule a behavioral health appointment reproductive and behavioral health care
I send my appreciation to the entire Novato community and staff. When we experience challenging times, we know we are better together.
Respectfully,
Dr. Tracy Smith
Superintendent