On November 30th, 2021, one year ago this Wednesday, thousands of lives were changed forever.

The tragedy that occurred at Oxford High School on this day is one that will never be forgotten. The major loses that were suffered will forever be in our hearts.

This year, 2022, students and staff will have the day off for memorial and safety. “Wildcat Remembrance Day,” declared by superintendent of Oxford community schools Ken Weaver, will be a time to heal and remember. A time to reflect and mourn. They will have this time to be with their loved ones and make each moment count. District officials are also inviting students, families, and community members to join in a moment of silence at 12:51 p.m., when the first 911 calls came in, in respect and remembrance of the event.

The district is also partnering with the All For Oxford Resiliency Center to distribute luminarias — small paper lanterns- and residents will be asked to light the luminarias at 7 p.m. November 30th to honor the four fallen students.

In memory of the victims, here are a few words each of their loved ones had to say about them:

“He went out of his way to make everyone around him feel special, feel loved and to feel included – that’s something we can all do.” -Jill Soave, mother of Justin Shilling (fox2detroit.com).

“Tate Myre, 16, has been described as a leader, an awesome friend and a great brother.” -clickon2detroit.com.

“Hana [was described as] unique and special — her infectious laugh, her honesty, her kindheartedness and her biting wit and sarcastic sense of humor”. “Those who knew Hana said she radiated positivity and soaked up every moment to live life to its fullest.” – detroitfreepress.

With the planting of a memorial tree, she says, “It blooms, leaves looking like heart-shaped flowers. A beautiful piece in remembrance to her because she was beautiful inside and out.” – Nicole Beausoleil, mother of Madisyn Baldwin (wxyzdetroit).

It is also important to remember the survivors on this day. We will never understand what they have endured. We respect, encourage, and remember these students and staff. No student should have to be in fear at school. Please, check on you friends and family, and make sure the people you love are okay.

Just because it is hard to remember, does not mean we get to forget. So, on this tragic one year anniversary, remember the victims, families, and friends of the four students lost on this day. Remember the survivors whose lives are forever changed, and remember to hold your loved ones close.

Oxford students, we stand with you and you are in our thoughts.

Madisyn Baldwin.

Hanna St. Julianna.

Tate Myre.

Justin Shilling.

You will never be forgotten.