Milan, Italy – Milanese schools are mobilizing psychological support for students following the tragic incident in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, where two students from Milan, Chiara Costanzo and Achille Barosi, lost their lives. As students return to classes on January 7th, educational institutions are prioritizing emotional well-being over traditional lessons, offering a space for grief and healing.
Schools Implement Psychological Support and Commemorations
The impact of the Crans-Montana tragedy is deeply felt across Milan’s educational community. Not only the schools directly affected, such as Liceo Scientifico Moreschi (attended by Chiara Costanzo) and Liceo Artistico delle Orsoline (attended by Achille Barosi), but also other institutions will observe a minute of silence in memory of the victims and in solidarity with the injured. The return to school will be marked by psychological interventions and commemorations rather than regular lessons.
Orsoline Institute Prioritizes Emotional Processing
Sister Claudia Linati, Rector of the Orsoline Institute, stated, “Today we will hold a faculty meeting to decide on all initiatives. We will certainly have psychological support, which will also be extended to middle school students. At the moment, they know that ‘an older classmate’ has passed away, but this tragedy has had such a resonance that everyone will need help.” The institute, where Achille was a high-achieving student, will dedicate the first day to allowing students to express their feelings, even to cry. A moment of prayer will also be organized, “for those who believe and for those who do not: it will be a moment of silence, reprocessing, and also of consolation. Faith makes us believe in a resurrected Lord,” concluded the Rector.
Moreschi High School Remembers Chiara Costanzo
The teachers of Liceo Scientifico Moreschi shared a heartfelt dedication to their student, Chiara Costanzo, on social media: “We remember you as a precious presence, noble in spirit, enthusiastic, curious, attentive to always seeking your best self: a point of reference for everyone. Your radiant, authentic beauty will forever dwell in our hearts, like a monitor in the constant search for good, in whatever form it manifests.” Similar initiatives of mourning and support are being prepared for her classmates. Principal Bruno Rossilli emphasized, “Chiara was a brilliant student and a very good girl. Her entire class is an exemplary class, undoubtedly the best in the institute. I personally contacted Chiara’s father to offer condolences.” He added, “We will observe a minute of silence, and many of my colleagues have already informed me that they will do the same in their schools.” Additionally, “we will welcome the students of class 3AL by providing the presence of the school’s pedagogist and psychologist with targeted interventions for post-traumatic emotional management.”
Psychological Task Force at Liceo Virgilio
A task force of psychologists will also be deployed at Liceo Virgilio, where four students from class 3D of the Human Sciences program are hospitalized at the Major Burns Center. Vice Principal Mario Secone explained, “These are psychologists specialized in emergency situations who will help not only the young people but also us in framing this nameless suffering towards something that can be symbolized.” He also expressed concern for the families of the four hospitalized students: “They are experiencing something too immense. As soon as there is a glimmer of possibility for their children to reconnect with school, in any form, from home schooling to hospital schooling, we will be ready to do our part, in the most gradual way possible.”
Ongoing Investigations and Community Support
The tragic events in Crans-Montana continue to be investigated, with Jacques and Jessica Moretti, owners of “Le Constellation,” reportedly under scrutiny regarding licensing issues, structural deficiencies, and a non-functional fire safety system. Meanwhile, the community rallies to support the victims and their families. Two 16-year-old girls, Sofia and Francesca, were transferred to Niguarda Hospital in Milan in serious condition. Kean was identified through DNA testing, and confirmation for his friend Leonardo is awaited. Achille Barosi tragically passed away.
Community Response and Future Plans
The Milanese community is showing widespread support. The funeral of Achille Barosi was held at the Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio, attended by friends and family. The city of Milan, through its Corriere Milano newsletter, continues to provide updates and resources. The focus remains on providing comprehensive support to students and families affected by this profound loss, ensuring a sensitive and supportive environment for their return to daily life.
Source: milano.corriere.it
