The Bubbly Librarian

I am writing this post with a heavy heart.  Last night I learned that one of my students has died. And the police have ruled it a homicide.  She was 11 years old and the sweetest little girl.  She died at home, though there are no more details being released.  I can’t help but remember sitting in my principal’s office discussing whether or not we should call social services regarding her living conditions. I know they had been called in the past for the same concerns.  She lived in a home with over 120 cats and the smell was overwhelming at times.  I had to throw away a couple of her library books because I couldn’t get rid of the smell. I feel horrible about telling her she could no longer take books home during vacations. I wonder if I should have pushed harder for another call to DSS. She always seemed happy enough; I never thought she was in danger; I just didn’t think her living conditions were appropriate. I don’t understand how anyone could have hurt this sweet tiny girl.