BOCES director describes fawn collapse and death at Rogers Elementary; agency to review procedures

Robin Brown, director of alternative and special education with Year 2 BOCES, addressed the Jamestown City Council to describe an incident at the Rogers Elementary site leased by Jamestown Public Schools in which a fawn found on campus collapsed and later died despite staff attempts to assist.

Brown said staff discovered the fawn on Wednesday, June 25 at about 1:55 p.m. and were concerned that extreme temperatures and possible dehydration were affecting the animal. Staff consulted the school nurse, who contacted wildlife agencies and ultimately spoke with a representative from TSE Wildlife Center in Chautauqua County. Brown said the wildlife representative advised staff to attempt to cool the fawn; staff moved the animal into an air-conditioned building away from students, shaded it and placed it in a kiddie pool with a small amount of water. The fawn’s condition deteriorated and it passed away shortly after being brought inside.

After the animal’s death, Brown said staff placed the fawn in a shaded tree line adjacent to the playground until arrangements could be made to remove it. Brown acknowledged the situation was upsetting to families and neighbors; she said Year 2 BOCES is reviewing the events and will evaluate procedures for future incidents.

Why it matters: The incident involved students at a leased school site and prompted concern among parents and neighbors. The agency’s review could change how staff and schools handle distressed wildlife on campus.

What was not decided: No formal policy change was adopted during the meeting; Year 2 BOCES said it will evaluate procedures and follow up.

Provenance (transcript excerpts): Robin Brown’s full statement is recorded in the meeting transcript (s 1766.875–1946.32).