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Grandparents speak out following middle schooler's suicide

Mandy Porter, in a photo from a Facebook tribute page.

MUKWONAGO -- Staff members will be available for counseling today at Park View Middle School in Mukwonago after an eighth grade student died Thursday.

Mandy Porter, 13, committed suicide, according to her grandparents, who say they want to share their grief in hopes that others will learn from theirs.

They were interviewed by WTMJ 4 in Milwaukee.

Porter's 16-year-old sister, Jessica, killed herself last July, said George and Carol Porter.

On a Facebook tribute page, Porter was remembered for her skills as a basketball player and as being one of "the nicest people that we played."

"She is going to be missed on and off the court. We will be praying for her and her family. You just have to remember that she is playing with the angels now, and she is looking down on you and cheering every time you make a basket," one poster wrote.

School officials sent a letter notifying parents and students of Porter's death.

"As part of the close-knit Mukwonago community, we know that this tragedy will impact individuals and families from across our district, and that many students and individuals will want to gather for support and sharing," Park View Principal Mark Doome said in a letter to parent and students.

The eighth grade counselor and social worker will follow Mandy's class schedule to inform classmates of way that they can show concern and sympathy. Parents are welcome to accompany their child to school if they wish, according to WTMJ

Staff members at all Mukwonago schools will monitor student behavior and be available to counsel anyone having difficulties.

"On behalf of the Mukwonago School District, we extend our sincere condolences to Mandy Porter's family and friends," Doome said in the letter. "Please keep Mandy and her family and friends in your thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time."

Funeral arrangements have not been finalized.