McPherson Schools to Close Monday for Funeral of 6-Year-Old Cole Adrian

McPherson Public Schools will not hold classes Monday, giving students and staff the chance to attend funeral services for 6-year-old Cole Adrian, the district has announced.

"We continue to grieve alongside our school community and are grateful for the compassion and support shown to one another during this difficult time," said Dr. Cody Rierson, the district's superintendent.

In a statement to families, Rierson said the community is still coming to terms with the loss of two precious lives. He explained that classes were canceled because a significant number of staff members plan to attend the funeral of one of their beloved students. With so many employees away, he said, the district would not have the personnel needed to operate its school buildings safely and effectively. He added that the district understands the depth of the loss and remains committed to honoring and supporting those who are grieving.

Rierson also spoke about the toll the loss has taken. He said he tries hard not to let emotion take over, though it has done so a couple of times. "But this is going to be a process. I don't think any of us could have predicted this. There's no playbook," he said. He said the district is using the resources it has to build the best plan it can, and that the plan will be evaluated on an ongoing basis as it moves forward with its Bullpups.

Cole was one of two people who died Saturday in an incident at Stryker Stadium in Wichita. Nicholas Schafer, 35, also of McPherson, died in the crash. Eleven other people were hurt.

Stockham Family Funeral Home is handling Cole's services. The funeral is set for 10 a.m. Monday at McPherson Free Methodist Church, and a private graveside service at McPherson Cemetery will follow.

The family has asked those attending to wear clothing that reflects Cole's favorites: soccer jerseys, blue clothing or camouflage. The Cole Adrian Memorial Fund has also been established in his honor.

Rierson said the district has several support services in place for students and families, including a crisis team. It is also coordinating with Prairie View and McPherson Psychological Associates to help people work through the grieving process, including over the long term.