Dear Parents and Students,

You may have seen posts on social media or heard from friends about the loss of one of our own. It is with great sadness that I inform you of the death of one of our band members, Veronica Sanchez, who passed away last week. This is a somber day for all of us in the community as we mourn the sudden loss of Veronica.

Veronica was a sweet student that loved to play her flute. She would never get discouraged about anything that was expected of her in both band and in school. She loved to be part of the band and loved to play alongside her friends. There was never a day where she didn’t have a smile on her face, and would always have positive outlook on everything in life. Her loss will be felt throughout the band program.

Some of our students are understandably sadden and our focus will be to help them cope with the news of Veronica’s passing. Below are some local resources available for students and families to use during this difficult time.

• Citrus Valley Medical Center in Covina, (626) 814-2479

• Dr. Irma Diaz, Director of Bereavement – Bereavement Support Group, (626) 859-2263

• Huntington Hospital in Pasadena, (626) 397-5000 – Barbara Perry, Coordinator for Bereavement, (626) 397-5074

• San Gabriel Mission Bereavement Ministry in San Gabriel, (626) 457-3035 – Limited hours due to COVID-19 (Available:  Mon. – Fri. 9:00am-1:00pm)

We ask that you respect the privacy of the family at this time. Students who wish to write letters of condolences or good memories of Veronica can be sent to me via email to pihuerta422@bpusd.net.  For those of you who would like to contribute to the family, can do so via mobile payment service, Venmo @Andrea-SanchezOrozco. All donations will go towards helping the family with funeral expenses. 

Veronica was a vibrant student who will be fondly remembered by teachers and students. Thank you for your support during this difficult time. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or concerns.

Sincerely,

Peter Huerta

Band Director