Students receive support in dealing with classmate’s death

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VERSAILLES — Students at Versailles High School will be receiving emotional support Monday and Tuesday as they deal with the death of a classmate.

Zachary R. Kelch, 16, of North Star, was killed in a one-vehicle crash Saturday morning in Shelby County. He was a junior at Versailles High School.

“Zach was a hard working, quiet kid with many friends. Zach loved his job, took pride in his work, took initiative, loved the outdoors,” said Superintendent Aaron Moran.

According to Moran, on Monday, Feb. 20, from noon to 5 p.m., a support team of personnel from Tri- County Recovery and Mental Health Crisis Counselors and local public school counselors will be available in the Versailles Elementary School gymnasium to assist anyone. Those coming to the school are asked to enter the building using door 1 or 2 by parking in the north lot.

On Tuesday, Feb. 21, when students return to school, the district will have the same resources for students from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., said Moran.

“Your child may be coming home with questions and worries about this loss,” said Moran in an email. “Please feel free to contact the school if you have an issue you would like to discuss.”

On Wednesday, Feb. 22, the high school will be closed to allow the students and staff to attend the funeral services. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday at St. Louis Catholic Church in North Star.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday from 2 to 8 p.m. at Bailey Zechar Funeral Home in Versailles and Wednesday morning from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the church.

Kelch was the son of Lance and Tracey Kelch, of North Star, and Paula (Miller) and Greg Scott, of Versailles. At school, he was a member of the Versailles FFA and enjoyed canoeing, skiing and hanging out with his friends.

Staff report

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