CHS Classses Canceled to Remember School Psychologist Ruffolo

COVENTRY, RI — Coventry Public Schools canceled classes for Coventry High School Tuesday following the sudden death of school psychologist Louis Ruffolo.

The district announced classes were canceled in a brief message at 9:42 p.m. on the district’s Facebook page.

“We are sorry for the late notification, but there is no school for students at Coventry High School on Tue. 3/19/2024.”

Members of the Coventry High community speculated it regarded a CHS faculty member.

“This morning I am hearing from multiple people that Dr. Louis Ruffolo, the school psychologist has passed,” said Mikayla Selene Johnson.

The district did not provide any other detail at the time and had not updated the announcement as of 10 a.m. Tuesday, but followed up with an email to parents and staff confirming Ruffolo’s death at 11 a.m.

“It is with profound sadness that we share the news of the unexpected passing of our beloved faculty member, Dr. Lou Ruffolo. Dr. Ruffolo served as a dedicated school psychologist for over 23 years and also coached our Unified Basketball and JV Boys Soccer teams. His loss is deeply felt by the entire Coventry Public Schools community, and especially by Coventry High School,” wrote Superintendent Don Cowart.

Ruffolo, who earned his PhD in psychology at University of Rhode Island in 2003, had worked as the school’s psychologist since August 2012.

“In addition to his professional contributions, Dr. Ruffolo was a husband and father. Our hearts go out to his family during this incredibly difficult time. We kindly ask that you keep them in your thoughts and respect their privacy as they navigate this profound loss,” Cowart added.

His statement continued, “Supporting our students and staff through this challenging period is our utmost priority. To assist with processing this devastating news, we have enlisted the support of outside counselors who have provided resources and strategies to our staff. Starting tomorrow, when students return, we will have a comprehensive support system in place to assist those who may be struggling.

Throughout the day, clinicians, grief counselors, administrators, and additional counseling staff will be available to provide support to anyone who needs it. We will also begin the day with a brief announcement and moment of silence during advisory. Additionally, members of the Unified Basketball and Soccer teams will be provided with dedicated support in the library to help them process their emotions.

While we recognize that there are no words to alleviate the pain of this loss, we are committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for our students and staff as they navigate through their grief. Our goal is to maintain as normal a schedule as possible for the remainder of the day while ensuring that appropriate support is readily available.

If you are concerned that your child is/will be significantly impacted by this news and require additional support, please let us know in one of the following ways:

• Student Support Request Form

• Coventry High School (401) 822-9499

• macomberbrooke@coventryschools.net

Our counselors will be available at Coventry High School until 4 pm today, and from 8 am to 4 pm on Wednesday. However, if you are in immediate need of support for your child or family outside of school hours please contact your physician, local community agency (Thrive Behavioral Health: 401-691-6000), call 911 or 988, or seek assistance at an emergency room.

We have included a resource that you may find helpful.  Please do not hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions or concerns. We are here for you and your children during this difficult time. Please keep an eye on your email for additional resources as we continue to coordinate support for our school community.