LETTER: A 'Thank You' to Principal Hobin and Coventry Educators

As 's cousin, I wanted to take a moment to share the heartwarming experience I witnessed involving Coventry High School's Principal - Mr. Hobin - and his dedicated teaching staff.  Their actions during this very difficult time has helped bring some measure of comfort to the Augers and their extended family, and should make the citizens of Coventry proud.  They are deserving of our appreciation and never-ending commitment to our community's youth. 

The death of Douglas was an unfortunate and tragic event for our community, particularly for the Town's student population. Many of these young people have never experienced the death of someone they knew, let alone a peer they have grown-up with and have seen on a near-daily basis, whether it be in the schools or at the playground. I witnessed hundreds of these young men and women pay their respects and the outpouring of support has been breathtaking.  

I also recognized how the area's teachers - from Doug's elementary years all the way through Coventry High School - came together to face this tragedy with their pupils and support them in dealing with their grief, all while trying to sort out their own emotions and heartache.  In particular, Principal Hobin demonstrated the very best of our community.  He came promptly at the beginning of calling hours and remained until the very late hours of the night, when the last Coventry High School students passed by the casket and offered their condolences to the family.  I watched as Principal Hobin consoled those students, offered them comfort, shared in their memories of Doug, and helped ease their tears.  He also took the time to attend the funeral service the following day. With Mr. Hobin were guidance counselors and many, many teachers who demonstrated the same caring nature.  It was an amazing sight to witness, one deeply appreciated by the family. 

As a mother, an educator, and as a Coventry resident, I was so proud of our principal, teachers, and guidance counselors for the support they have offered during this time of deep sorrow.  At some point in our lives, we have all been guilty of taking our educational system and its dedicated personnel for granted.  That is why I find it so important to share this story so that, in some small way, we are reminded of how important they are to our children, to our families, and to the community as a whole.  Mr. Hobin and his staff truly represent the finest in education and our community is blessed to have them. 

Sincerely, 

Amy Suffoletto

Coventry