District Mourns Commack Student Killed On Northern State

Commack School District Superintendent Donald James sent a message to parents Monday afternoon reacting to the death of Taylor Ann Cavaliere, a junior at Commack High School who died Sunday night when she was struck by a car near exit 42 on the Northern State Parkway.

"It is with great sadness that I am writing to inform you of the tragic passing of one of our students, Taylor Cavaliere," James said in the statement. "This is a terrible tragedy, one that affects everyone in the community."

Cavaliere was 16 years old.

According to the email, the school will be setting up grief counseling for students grieving Cavaliere's death.

If you wish to share your memories of Taylor or send thoughts to the Cavaliere family, email kaitlyn.piccoli@patch.com.

Here is the text of the letter in full:

Dear Parents and Community Members,   It is with great sadness that I am writing to inform you of the tragic passing of one of our students, Taylor Cavaliere.  Taylor, a junior at the high school, was struck and killed by a car this past weekend.  This is a terrible tragedy, one that affects everyone in the community. 

Parents should be aware that there is a great deal of information being circulated via Facebook and other social media.  Therefore, if as a parent you feel it appropriate, I urge you to have a conversation with your child(ren) about this matter.  Teens sometimes do not divulge their feelings, and it is important that we determine the effect this terrible loss is having on them, and whether or not they are in need of assistance.

As soon as I am made aware of the funeral arrangements, I will send another e-mail through this system.  Further, grief counseling is being arranged for students in need, dates and times of which will be announced as soon as possible.  

With Sadness,
Donald A. James
Superintendent of Commack Schools