HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS RESPOND TO SUICIDE INCIDENTS

Grad councils at three high schools have developed 'buddy cards' for
distribution.

In response to the recent spate of youth suicides, students at the three
high schools in Kelowna are getting together and fighting back.

On their own initiative, the graduation councils at the three schools have
reportedly developed a wallet-sized card with information about suicide
prevention on one side and a buddy contract on the other.

The students involved in the project have been instructed not to talk to
the media until the project is complete but superintendent of schools Ron
Rubadeau confirmed its existence.

"This doesn't surprise me," he said. "Student grad councils have reflected
their opinions on a variety of different issues over the last few years."

Rubadeau said the principals of the schools have been involved in
developing the card to make sure it didn't violate any school district
policies.

As to whether it would be effective, the superintendent was noncommittal.

"It's hard to say, but if the students feel that this might meet their
needs, so be it," he said. "It can't be any less effective."

There have been three suicides involving students from the Central Okanagan
school district since the beginning of October.

On Oct. 1, a 13-year-old Constable Neil Bruce middles school student died
by suicide after being suspended for smoking marijuana.

On Nov. 24, 15-year-old Jason Ricciuti from Rutland senior secondary died
by suicide while on a hockey road trip.

He, too, was facing suspension from his hockey team for smoking marijuana.

On Dec. 5, a 15-year-old Kelowna senior secondary student died by suicide,
reportedly after storming out of the house after an argument with his mother.

Trustee Eric Buckley said the board had been informed of the project but
had not been presented with a copy of the card.

"I see no need for the board to get involved unless additional spending is
necessary," said Buckley.