To the editor:

On behalf of the Landrum High School student body, I would like to thank everyone from the community who supported us through this difficult time regarding the death of classmate and friend, Skyler Powell.

It is never easy when we lose one of our fellow classmates, someone with whom we have grown up, with whom we have talked in the halls, and with whom we have made special bonds.

The community responded with great generosity during this difficult time that allowed Landrum High School, Skyler’s friends, and family, to help heal their broken hearts, and for that, we are forever grateful.

I would also like to thank all first responders, counselors, district officials, local clergy, and our fellow schools for their swift support during our time of mourning. They were all there for us from the beginning and never left our side.

In a time of grief and great loss, rivalries were put on hold to recognize how precious life is. During this week our teams traveled to Chesnee and Pendleton High where we were met with respect through devotions and moments of silence. It did not matter whether they were Boiling Spring Bulldogs, Chapman Panthers, Chesnee Eagles, Pendleton Bulldogs, or Polk County Wolverines — during this time we were all Landrum Cardinals.

In life, Skyler taught us to smile and laugh, always bringing his charisma and charm everywhere he went. There was never a dull moment with Skyler, and even now, Skyler teaches us. He teaches us how valuable our lives are and that we should take time to enjoy life, to tell loved ones how much we care, to be patient in our daily commute, and always remember to “Take Ten for Skyler.”
Brandon Hernandez
Student Body President
Landrum High School
Landrum, S.C.