School says sorry for upsetting community by removing memorial.

Content warning: This story contains sensitive material that may be distressing to some readers.

Last week, a memorial was erected outside Santa Sabina College in Strathfield to honor Charlotte O'Brien, a former student who tragically took her own life in September. However, the memorial was removed just a few days later, causing great distress to Charlotte's family and friends.

After receiving advice from mental health experts, the school made the decision to take down the memorial. However, this decision was met with disappointment and sadness from those who knew and loved Charlotte. Principal Paulina Skerman has since issued a statement, apologizing to both Charlotte's family and the entire school community.

Skerman described the past week as "challenging" and acknowledged that the school's initial statements to the media were inadequate and hurtful. She expressed deep regret for adding to the pain that Charlotte's family is already experiencing. The school recognizes that they have made mistakes and is sincerely sorry for any harm caused.

The decision to remove the memorial was made in an effort to balance the desire to honor Charlotte's memory with the school's responsibility to prevent further distress among students. Skerman also personally visited Charlotte's parents to discuss the issue and offer her apologies.

The school is now working with Charlotte's family to create a permanent memorial that will serve as a lasting tribute to her. Skerman is grateful for the opportunity to make amends and ensure that Charlotte will never be forgotten.

Charlotte's aunt, Melinda Rodger, expressed the family's devastation upon discovering the memorial had been taken down. They were hoping to visit the site and lay flowers, but instead found Charlotte's grandfather wandering the streets looking for the memorial. The family is still coming to terms with their loss and the removal of the memorial only added to their pain.

If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out for support. You can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue. In case of an emergency, please dial Triple Zero. Let us all remember Charlotte and the impact she had on those around her.

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