A New Hampshire High School Rallied to Include Their Late Classmate in the Yearbook
Editor's note: This article was written by a Townsquare Media Northern New England contributor and may contain the individual's views, opinions or personal experiences.
In a few short months, Andre Schaeffer should be walking across the stage at Dover High School in Dover, New Hampshire with the rest of his classmates to shake his Principal's hand, turn to his peers, hold up his diploma while flashing his signature smile, and sit through the rest of the Class of 2022 graduation ceremony.
Unfortunately, that's not an image his classmates will see; however, because of those very classmates, they will see Andre's picture forever immortalized alongside them in the Dover High Class of 2022 Yearbook.
As reported last summer by Seacoast Current, Andre heartbreakingly took his own life last June, leaving behind an entire cheerleading community that continues to keep his name alive every single day and in every single competition with their #AllForAndre mantra.
Before his passing, Andre was a standout student-athlete that was part of the Dover Varsity Cheerleading team, as well as a member of the Maine Stars Cheer Gym. On top of being known for his smile, marching to the beat of his own drum, and how he inspired others, he was known for his amazing tumbling skills that were revered by all.
And thanks to the actions of his fellow classmates in the Dover High Class of 2022, Andre will be remembered outside of the cheerleading circle as well, as Andre's mother, Tonya Ames, learned last night that he'll be included in the Class of 2022 yearbook.
The principal said the students were loud and clear Andre had to be included.
Tonya shared her appreciation and pride of the Class of 2022 in a post on her personal Facebook page.
I wanted to take a second to recognize the Dover High School students and especially the Senior Class '22. You have used your heartbreak and shock to gain insight into a life threatening illness that we all call depression. You have used your voices to make notable changes not only in your school but also in our community!
I am beyond proud of all of you for continuing to listen to the needs of your peers, speak up and take action! You all made it so my beautiful Andre will be recognized in the yearbook as a member of the Class of 2022. I am eternally grateful for each and every one of you.
In addition to making sure Andre is included in their yearbook, the Class of 2022 also made sure that two other classmates who also took their own lives will be included in their yearbook as well.
And that may be the epitome of Dover High Green Wave Pride.
If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, visit the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline website. Resource information is provided for free as well as a chat message service. To speak directly to a professional, call 1-800-273-8255. You are not alone and help is available. Every life is important.