A Message from Dr. Christopher Sattele, Principal of Harrisburg High School – John Harris Campus

Dear Students, Staff, Families, and Members of the Harrisburg High School Community,

It is with an incredibly heavy heart that I share the devastating news of the passing of one of our students, Zaire Warren, who tragically lost his life over the weekend due to gun violence. Words cannot fully express the sorrow we feel as we grapple with this heartbreaking loss. Zaire was more than a student—he was a vibrant part of our school family, a young man with dreams, talents, and a presence that touched many lives within these halls.

Zaire’s life was tragically cut short, and we know that this news will affect each of us in different ways. For those who knew Zaire personally, for those who shared classrooms, hallways, and friendships with him, the grief may feel overwhelming. For those who did not know him closely, the loss still resonates—because he was one of us, and we are all connected in this community.

Our thoughts, our hearts, and our deepest sympathies are with Zaire’s family and loved ones during this unimaginable time. We stand with them in their grief, and we honor Zaire’s memory by coming together in support and solidarity.

In times like these, it’s important to remember that we do not walk through grief alone. Our Student Services team is available and ready to provide support to any student or staff member who needs someone to talk to or simply a space to reflect and process. We will have grief counselors on-site this week, and additional support resources will be communicated to you through your teachers and advisors.

Please, I urge each of you—students and staff alike—to take care of yourselves and each other. It’s okay to feel sadness, confusion, anger, or even numbness. These are natural reactions to such a senseless loss. Be kind to one another. Reach out. Share memories. Cry together. Lean on your teachers, counselors, and one another. Our strength lies in our ability to come together as a community, even in our darkest moments.

We also encourage families to have open conversations with their children at home. The loss of a peer can stir up many emotions, and your guidance, presence, and reassurance are more important now than ever. If any families need help connecting to grief or mental health services, please do not hesitate to reach out to our school’s main office.

Zaire will not be forgotten. In the coming days, we will explore meaningful ways to honor his life and legacy here at the John Harris Campus. Let us hold tight to the values we strive to uphold—compassion, unity, resilience—and let us carry Zaire’s memory forward in all we do.

To our students, staff, and families: please remember that you are not alone. We are here for you. We are Harrisburg Strong. And in Zaire’s memory, we will stand even stronger—together.

With deepest sympathy and unwavering support,

Dr. Christopher Sattele
Principal
Harrisburg High School – John Harris Campus

Would you like this formatted as a printable letter, email, or social media post?