West Seneca district mourns student Carson Shanahan; offers counseling and gatherings for students and staff

The West Seneca Central School District on Aug. 12 announced that a student, Carson Shanahan, died Sunday after a battle with cancer and said it will provide support services for students, staff and family members.

Superintendent said, “it is with profound sadness, that I ask for your attention. On Sunday evening, 1 of our students, Carson Shanahan, lost his courageous battle against cancer.” The district asked the community to join in a moment of silence and said communications were sent to families.

The district scheduled student supports at West Middle School from 3 to 7 p.m. the day after the announcement and a separate gathering for faculty and staff at West Elementary’s library. District officials said they will provide ongoing support for families affected by the loss.

Superintendent highlighted the Shanahan family’s ties to the district, noting that Jessica Shanahan works in the district’s technology department and has previously served as a computer support aide in several elementary schools. “Jessica is a bright light in every room that she walks into and has worked in a number of our elementary schools,” the superintendent said.

District communications said friends and family are welcome at the scheduled supports and that the district will continue to update families and staff as needed. No formal board action related to the announcement was recorded during the meeting.

The district asked the community to keep the Shanahan family in their thoughts and prayers and said additional supports will be communicated to families and staff as appropriate.