15-year-old girl drowns during PE class, Indiana school says. ‘Profoundly upsetting’

A student at an Indiana high school drowned at school, officials say.

The Whiteland Community High School student, who has not officially been identified, drowned in a pool during her physical education class, according to a letter sent to families from Clark-Pleasant Community Schools.

“The specific cause and circumstances surrounding this tragedy are not yet known, and a thorough investigation will take place,” school district officials said.

WTHR and WRTV reported the victim was a 15-year-old girl named Alaina. The school district informed parents about the death “with great sadness,” the stations reported.

Whiteland Community High School canceled classes Wednesday after the “profoundly upsetting” incident, the district said.

Whiteland is about 20 miles south of Indianapolis.

“Our deepest sympathies and thoughts are with the family and friends during this incredibly difficult time,” the letter to families said. “We understand that this news is profoundly upsetting for our entire school community, and we are here to support our students, staff, and families as we grieve together.”

This story was originally published May 17, 2023 at 9:40 AM with the headline "15-year-old girl drowns during PE class, Indiana school says. ‘Profoundly upsetting’."