The principal of a high school whose letter to parents named and blamed a student for committing suicide says he's very sorry and saddened that he has caused further distress.
Photo: RNZ / Cole Eastham-Farrelly
In the letter the principal, who RNZ has decided not to name, called the student's decision an "irreversible and unacceptable choice".
Mental health advocate Mike King criticised the letter yesterday, saying the school had ostracised the girl and shamed her and her family in front of the entire community.
Mr King said while the school's intentions would have been good, the delivery was "appalling".
The principal declined to be interviewed, saying in a statement that it was not in the best interest for his students.
He said it was not his intention to cause more distress and everyone at the school felt deeply for those affected.
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