RSU 13 has canceled school for Monday and Tuesday, Nov. 24 and 25, but will open two schools each of those mornings, 8 a.m. - 11 a.m., for students, staff, and families "to process any emotions they may have," according to a letter from Superintendent John McDonald posted to RSU 13's website and social media outlets. This cancelation follows a Friday, Nov. 21, 2025 death of a student.

This week was already scheduled to be a short week in honor of Thanksgiving. Classes will resume Monday, Dec. 1, 2025

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Read the entire letter below.

Dear Families,

We know this has been a very difficult weekend for our students and for the broader community. At this time, we are announcing that Monday November 24th and Tuesday November 25th will not be regular school days.  We look forward to bringing all students back into their familiar environments on Monday December 1st to restore a sense of routine and continue to provide support.

On Monday November 24th and Tuesday November 25th, we will have two schools open their doors to families from 8am to 11am to help children, staff, and families process any emotions.  All other schools in the district will be closed: 

-South School is located at 30 Broadway in Rockland, and any elementary students, family, and staff are invited to stop in for support and additional counseling that we will have on hand.

-Oceanside High School is located at 400 Broadway in Rockland, and any middle/high school students, family, and staff are invited to stop in for support and additional counseling that we have on hand.

We encourage all parents and guardians to please remind your students that it is okay to ask for help from adults in their lives.

We are also aware that concerning posts are circulating on social media, which may make families and students feel uneasy stepping into our schools. There will be an increased law enforcement presence at these two schools this week, and we are also welcoming additional personnel from neighboring districts and agencies to support students and staff. 

We will continue to communicate promptly if any changes to this current plan become necessary.

Thank you for your care and patience as we move forward together to support our students and our community.  If you have questions regarding these plans, please do not hesitate to contact us or if you have specific concerns about your child, we encourage you to be in touch with their school.

With much care,

John McDonald