Winston Churchill High School administrators have confirmed the death of a 12th-grade student over winter break, sending shockwaves through the Potomac school community.
In a message sent to families, provided to the MoCoShow by Moderately MoCo, Principal John Taylor shared that senior Levi Shum died while on vacation in Mexico with his family. According to the school, Shum was an avid and experienced fisherman and lost his life in a tragic fishing accident.
Taylor described Shum as “a wonderful young man” who will be remembered fondly by his peers and the broader Winston Churchill community. He said the news is devastating and heartbreaking for students, staff, and families, and shared that the school has expressed its deepest sympathy to Shum’s family.
The principal acknowledged that the loss of a young person can be especially difficult for students to process and encouraged families to speak openly with their children and listen closely to their concerns and questions. He noted that many students may wish to talk with their parents as they come to terms with the loss of a classmate.
To support students during this time, Winston Churchill High School is making counseling services available on campus for any students who may need support. Families who believe their child would benefit from speaking with a school counselor or other mental health staff are encouraged to contact their counselor directly or call the school office at 240-740-5400.
“The death of a child in our community is a loss for all of us,” Taylor wrote. “We will grieve together, and support each other, because that is what is important at a time like this.” The school also shared grief-support resources with families, including guidance on helping children understand and cope with loss.
