‘It will be different in the world without you Faye.’ Teacher mourns Cayce girl’s death
Faye Swetlik’s first-grade teacher posted an emotional message on Facebook honoring the Cayce girl who was abducted and killed last week.
Lexington School District Two shared Morgen Sightler’s post Tuesday, after results of Faye’s autopsy were made public.
“These past 4 days have been an experience no parent, teacher or child should ever have to face,” Sightler said last week. “I can’t help but think of all of the wonderful memories we had together in these 7 short months.
“I will miss your morning hugs, your bright eyed smile, you skipping down the hall ready for anything and everything, the excitement you had when I told you to kiss your brain, your curiosity, your kindness, your stories, but most of all...your ability to love unconditionally.
“On Monday I remember you telling me, Mrs. Tynes and Mrs. Prosser all about your new purple dress from Target and how it was just the right size for you.
“I pray you are dancing, skipping, and loving on everybody in that purple, size 7/8 dress right now in Heaven. I pray for your peace. I pray for all of us to spread your love at school and just cherish the memories we had with you.
“It will be different in the world without you Faye, a lot different. No teacher is ever prepared for that empty spot in the room. We pray to feel that joy again that we had on Monday. Please give me, Mrs. Tynes and Mrs. Prosser the strength to be that comfort for our students. ‘We miss you Faye, more than anything and it is okay to be sad.’
“Faye, you taught us more than we could ever teach you and we are so thankful for that. Rest In Peace sweet angel.”
Springdale Elementary principal Hope Vrana released a statement about Faye’s death last Thursday, calling it “heart-breaking news.”
Vrana said extra counselors have been on hand to talk with Faye’s classmates and other students, teachers and staff.
“We know how hard something like this is even for adults to understand. We are sending home some general tips about how you can talk with your child about this,” Vrana said. “If you are worried about how your child is doing, please do not hesitate to contact our school. We are here to support your students through this.”
Vrana was scheduled to participate in a candle-light vigil at Cayce Town Hall Tuesday night.
Lexington Two spokeswoman Dawn Kujawa said the district will have no more comments on Faye’s death after sharing Sightler’s post.
Lexington Two tips for talking with children about the death
▪ Give honest, brief explanations
▪ Avoid over-answering questions
▪ Keep responses at the child’s level of understanding
▪ Listen and hug. Use a calm, reassuring voice
▪ Avoid forcing the discussion
▪ Remind children it is natural and acceptable to show emotion when someone we love dies
SOURCE: Lexington School District Two
This story was originally published February 18, 2020 at 6:02 PM with the headline "‘It will be different in the world without you Faye.’ Teacher mourns Cayce girl’s death."
