Oxford High School Memorial to be Removed Before Students Return on Monday

As students begin returning to Oxford High School on Monday (1/24), something will be missing:  A large memorial that has been constructed by students and members of the community that pays homage to the four teens that were killed on November 30.

Removing the Memorial is Being Done at the Advice of a Trauma Specialist

Oxford Community Schools Superintendent Tim Throne made the announcement this week, saying that removing the memorial is a step the school is taking to help returning students further the healing process. He says the school district has consulted with a trauma specialist and other schools that have suffered similar tragedies.

"The temporary memorial that has been created by our community played a beautiful role in honoring and remembering our lost Wildcats and provided a place for our community to grieve," Throne said. "As our high school welcomes students back to the building on Monday, trauma specialist Dr. Henry, along with those from other schools that have gone through similar situations, have advised us that the temporary memorial should not be there when our students return to campus."

Throne tells the Detroit Free Press that the victims' families are invited to take home any items from the memorial before it is deconstructed on Sunday.

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A Permanent Memorial is Being Planned

Throne says a lot of thought and planning will be put into a permanent memorial at the school. The victims' families will be consulted to discuss their wishes and a committee comprised of students, staff, and parents will work to create something that truly honors the lives that were lost.

"We will soon begin to plan for a permanent memorial to honor the beautiful lives that have been lost," Throne tells the Free Press.

Students will begin returning to in-person learning at Oxford High School on Monday.