EPHS grieves the losses of a student and a staff member

Eden Prairie High School (EPHS) students and staff shared a moment of silence at the start of the school day on Wednesday morning, as they confronted the loss of two beloved community members: Aaron Husmann, a junior, and Robert “Rob” Becker, a longtime employee and school security monitor.

Aaron Husmann

In an email sent on April 11 to students and families, Principal Nate Gibbs said, “I am heartbroken to share that Aaron Husmann, one of our 11th grade students, died unexpectedly last evening. As a school community, we are navigating profound grief and loss. Families, during times like this your support and partnership is critical.”

Trained grief counselors and social workers were available on Wednesday to support students. Gibbs said that all staff would be equipped with supportive talking points and resources for students and that the school would continue to offer intentional resources and connect with students who were impacted most.

The school also has resources available on its website to students and families who may need them.

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He said, “Families, we’d like to offer the following ideas: If your child is willing to talk, take time to listen and have them share their feelings. It’s OK to not have an answer; students value being heard and listened to.

“Allow students to express whatever feelings come up for them or what they are thinking about. Consider asking students how they are feeling using open-ended questions. Supports at EPHS are there for you to use. Please do not hesitate to access them.

“This will be a difficult time for our community. Your child matters to us. Your child is valued. And we will do our best over the coming days and weeks to support them as they process their grief. Please hold the Husmann family in your thoughts.”

Rob Becker

The day before, on April 10, Gibbs had sent an email to the school community about the sudden passing of Robert “Rob” Becker, who was one of the school’s security monitors.

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“Rob has been a valued member of our school community since 1995, and over that time has made countless connections with students and families, including many of you. This news may impact each of you in different ways, and I want you to know you are supported,” Gibbs said.

“Losing a member of our community is very difficult, and our counselors and social workers will be available to students throughout the day as needed if they would like to seek their support. As always, the associate principals and I are also here to support.

“During this challenging time, please remember each of us is an important member of this caring Eden Prairie High School community. Please keep Rob’s family and those close to him in your thoughts as they move through this difficult time.”