Administrators at the Russell-Tyler-Ruthton School District say the district will have grief counselors available, after the deaths of two students this weekend.

An e-mail sent out to parents in the RTR district on Saturday said two young people had died by suicide. The e-mail did not identify the two young people, but RTR Superintendent David Marlette said the loss was “a terrible tragedy.”

“Our hearts go out to these two families and I know that the complete RTR School community will reach out to support them in their most difficult time of need,” Marlette said in the e-mail. “The RTR School District will be here to help those families and the community in any way possible.”

The e-mail said RTR would have a crisis team available to students, school staff members, and community members over the next few days. The e-mail said grief counselors would be available at the RTR High School winter formal on Saturday night. Counselors would also be available today and Tuesday. A crisis team hotline number would also be available.

Marlette encouraged families to check in with their children, and get help for students who might be struggling after the news of the suicides. The e-mail emphasized the need to talk about the deaths in an open and matter-of-fact way, without sensationalizing them, as well as the need to give kids opportunities to share their feelings.

“Take extra time today to talk with your children. Keep them safe,” Marlette said.