CONTENT NOTE: This article discusses suicide and the deaths of two high school students. Reader discretion is advised. If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text 988 for free, confidential support available 24/7.
The Dover City Schools community is mourning the death of a second high school student by suicide in just over a month, prompting school officials to offer additional counseling and emotional support to students and staff.
Julio Raymundo Ramos, a 10th grade student at Dover High School, died Tuesday, Oct. 20, according to a message shared with families by Dover High School Principal Brooke Grafe.
His death comes just over five weeks after 15-year-old Nathan Michael Beachy, a freshman at Dover High School, died Sept. 15.
In her message to families Tuesday evening, Grafe confirmed Ramos’ death and said the information was being shared with his family’s blessing.
“I have some very sad news to share,” Grafe wrote. “Julio Raymundo Ramos, a 10th grade student, died by suicide today. With his family’s blessing, we are sharing this information with you to share at home with your children.”
Grafe said school counselors and community-based counselors would be available Wednesday and in the coming days to assist students struggling with the loss.
“We recognize that students, families, and staff may be experiencing a range of emotions, and we encourage everyone to check in with one another and reach out to a trusted adult or school counselor for support,” Grafe said.
The latest death marks another devastating loss for the Dover school community, which continues to grieve Beachy’s death in September.
Beachy, the son of Michael and Megan Beachy, was remembered as a dedicated student-athlete who excelled academically and demonstrated leadership both in and out of the classroom.
According to his obituary, Beachy took honors classes, regularly earned a place on the honor roll and participated in soccer, wrestling and rugby. He served as a captain in both soccer and wrestling.
Outside athletics, he enjoyed fishing, riding ATVs, spending time with friends and working on arts and crafts. He also had a longtime dream of becoming a K-9 police officer.
The deaths of two students within such a short period have brought renewed attention to the importance of mental health resources, open communication and support for young people experiencing emotional distress.
School officials have not indicated that the two deaths are connected, and the circumstances surrounding Ramos’ death beyond the information shared by the principal have not been publicly detailed.
In her message, Grafe emphasized that students and families should not hesitate to seek assistance.
“Help is available, and no one has to navigate difficult moments alone,” she said.
The school encouraged parents and guardians to speak with their children, recognize that grief can affect individuals differently and reach out to school counselors or other trusted adults when additional support is needed.
For a community now grieving the loss of two young lives, school officials are emphasizing compassion, connection and the importance of looking out for one another.
“Julio’s family, friends, and our entire school community are in our hearts,” Grafe said. “Thank you for your continued support of one another.”
Mental health resources available
Anyone experiencing emotional distress, thoughts of suicide or concern about someone else’s well-being can call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at any time. The service is free, confidential and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Parents concerned about their child’s mental health are also encouraged to contact a school counselor, pediatrician or qualified mental health professional.
For young people struggling with grief or emotional distress, reaching out to a trusted adult, family member, teacher or counselor can be an important first step toward receiving help.
