I am writing this petition as someone who was very close to a student from Shinnston, WV, who tragically took his own life. This year, he would have graduated alongside his peers. In honor of his memory and the impact he had on our lives, we request that a seat be saved for him at the graduation ceremony.

The school administration has refused this request citing Board of Education (BOE) policy. However, upon review of BOE policies, there is no explicit rule against such an act of remembrance. This suggests that the decision lies within the discretion of our local school administrators.

In 2017 alone, suicide was reported as being the second leading cause of death among individuals between ages 10 and 34 in the United States (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). By acknowledging our friend's absence in such a public manner at graduation - an event signifying one's transition into adulthood - we hope to raise awareness about mental health issues among young people.

We believe that saving a seat will not only honor our friend’s memory but also serve as a powerful statement against stigma surrounding mental health issues. It will show current and future students that it's okay to talk about these issues openly and seek help when needed.

Please join us in urging Shinnston school administrators to allow us to save a seat for our friend at graduation. Sign this petition today.