Arcata High staff reacts to loss of former student, offers grief counseling

An Arcata High graduate falls to her death from a Minneapolis apartment during a Halloween party. Nineteen year old, Joia Simpson, a freshman at University of St Thomas fell over two side by side railings, plummeting 10 stories early Thursday morning.

Simpson graduated from Arcata High school in June. Today we spoke with her former principal and coach, who both chose not to be on camera (due to the timing) out of respect for Simpson’s family.

Principal, Dave Navarre says, “This is a big loss for Arcata High. Our hearts and prayers go out to Joia’s family and friends. She was loved and she will be missed by many.” Her coach added,  “She was an outstanding student and was loved throughout the community.”

The high school will have grief counseling for all students. And will also be doing a moment of silence at tonight’s football game, and tomorrow at their soccer game.