Student Daniella "Dana" Choquette was riding with mother Mercy Choquette and father Sasha Choquette on the 15 Freeway headed to Las Vegas when the accident occurred.
McKinley Principal Daniela Weiner released a statement to parents and staff on Tuesday, informing them of the "passing of this wonderful family." They are survived by Sasha Choquette’s daughter Sana, to whom Weiner extended condolences on behalf of McKinley.
"During this time of great sorrow, we want you to know that we are here to support you and care deeply," Weiner stated.
Choquette was noted as a "bright, charismatic student who was friendly, kind and had many friends." Weiner also commended her artistic talent, which extended to her recent campaign for McKinley’s student council.
"In true form, she went above and beyond by creating not one, but three campaign posters," Weiner stated. "She was incredibly sweet, always willing to help, and both she and her parents frequently donated to the classroom. They cared a lot. Dana’s presence, kindness and generosity will always be remembered. We will miss her greatly."
Weiner added that McKinley is "committed to providing support and resources" for students and families during the grieving period, adding that the school counselor, school psychologist and mental health professionals are available to talk with struggling students.
A staff-wide meeting was held Tuesday at McKinley to provide talking points for parents to speak with their children about the situation "in a sensitive and supportive manner," and also designated spaces for students and staff to receive emotional support from counseling staff for the remainder of the week. Morning classroom meetings with "age-appropriate information" were also given a green light if necessary.
"Our heart and thoughts are with the family, their friends and the entire McKinley family who knew her and her parents," Weiner stated.
Tuesday’s special meeting of the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District Board of Education was opened in memory of Choquette, with SMMUSD Superintendent Dr. Antonio Shelton sharing the news with the audience in-person and online.
"[This is] so tragic, and we all send our thoughts and prayers and love to the family," SMMUSD Board President Jennifer Smith added.
thomas@smdp.com
