North Newton, IN – The North Newton Jr/Sr High School community is mourning the loss of one of its own, Avery Kroll, a 12th-grade student who tragically passed away on January 5, 2025, following a car accident. The death of the beloved student has left a deep void in the school, where Avery was well-known for her academic dedication, positive attitude, and vibrant personality. Her sudden passing has shaken the entire school community, sparking grief, sorrow, and heartfelt tributes from those who knew her.
A Bright Student and Friend
Avery Kroll, 17, was a senior at North Newton Jr/Sr High School and a respected member of the school community. Known for her dedication to her studies and her enthusiasm for school activities, Avery had made a lasting impression on both her peers and teachers. Her teachers describe her as a bright, hardworking, and determined student who approached every task with focus and passion. Whether in the classroom or in extracurricular activities, Avery demonstrated an exceptional commitment to her work, earning her the admiration of many.
In addition to her academic achievements, Avery was known for her kindness and generosity. She had a natural ability to make others feel comfortable and included, whether she was spending time with friends or helping classmates in need. Her friends recall how Avery was always there with a kind word or a smile, and her positive energy was contagious to everyone she encountered. “Avery was the kind of person who could brighten any room,” said one of her classmates. “She was always so thoughtful, and she cared about everyone around her.”
Avery was also a valued member of the North Newton community, where she participated in several school events and activities. Her involvement in school life extended beyond the classroom, and she was often seen volunteering at school functions and supporting her peers. Her love for her school and her classmates was evident in everything she did, and she will be remembered as a student who truly embodied the spirit of the Spartan family.
The Tragic Accident
On the evening of January 5, 2025, Avery was involved in a single-car accident that left her with serious injuries. Details of the accident are still being investigated, but local authorities confirmed that Avery was transported to the hospital after the crash. Tragically, despite the best efforts of medical personnel, Avery passed away from the injuries she sustained.
The news of Avery’s death spread quickly through the North Newton Jr/Sr High School community, leaving students, teachers, and staff in a state of shock and disbelief. For many, the loss of a young person full of promise and potential was incomprehensible. As the school community grappled with the loss, efforts were made to provide support for those who were deeply affected by the tragedy.
“We are devastated by the loss of Avery,” said the principal of North Newton Jr/Sr High School in a statement released shortly after the incident. “She was an outstanding student and a wonderful person who brought so much joy to everyone around her. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family during this incredibly difficult time, and we are here to support our students and staff as we all navigate this heartbreaking loss.”
Grieving the Loss: School’s Response
In response to Avery’s passing, the school administration immediately put measures in place to provide emotional support for students and staff. Counselors were available to meet with students who were struggling to cope with the news, and comfort dogs were brought to the school to offer comfort and support. This initiative was part of the school’s efforts to ensure that students and staff had access to the resources they needed to process the grief and sorrow that accompanied such a sudden loss.
“We understand how difficult this is for everyone, and we want to make sure that our students and staff know they are not alone in their grief,” said a school counselor. “We have counselors available to speak with anyone who needs support, and we’re also providing comfort dogs to help those who may need some time to relax and cope with their emotions.”
The outpouring of support for Avery’s family and friends has been widespread. Many students, faculty members, and community members have shared their memories of Avery, reflecting on her kindness, generosity, and positive spirit. The local community has rallied around Avery’s family, offering support and comfort during this incredibly difficult time.
Memorial and Tributes
In the days following Avery’s death, friends and classmates have expressed their sorrow through heartfelt tributes and memorials. Social media has been filled with messages of love and remembrance, as students and community members share their favorite memories of Avery and the impact she had on their lives.
A memorial service is planned for Avery in the coming days, where family, friends, and the North Newton community will come together to remember her life and honor her memory. The service will provide an opportunity for everyone who knew Avery to reflect on the qualities that made her such a special person—her compassion, her sense of humor, and her unwavering dedication to the people around her.
In addition to the memorial service, the school is planning a special tribute in her honor. School officials have announced that a designated area within the school will be named in Avery’s memory, ensuring that her spirit will continue to inspire future generations of students. Avery’s friends and teammates on the volleyball team, in particular, are organizing efforts to commemorate her life and contributions to the school.
“We will always remember Avery for the incredible person she was,” said one of her teammates. “She was the kind of person who made you feel like you could do anything. She always believed in all of us, and now we want to make sure her memory lives on forever.”
Community Support and Healing
As the North Newton Jr/Sr High School community comes to terms with Avery’s tragic passing, there is a strong sense of unity and support among students, faculty, and the wider community. The tragic accident has prompted an outpouring of compassion and love for Avery’s family, with many offering their condolences and support during this incredibly difficult time.
“We are heartbroken by Avery’s passing, but we are also incredibly grateful for the time we had with her,” said the principal. “Our school community is strong, and we will lean on each other to get through this. We will honor Avery’s memory and continue to support her family, friends, and everyone who was touched by her.”
As the days pass, the process of grieving will continue for the North Newton Jr/Sr High School community. However, Avery’s memory will live on through the many lives she touched. Her positive attitude, infectious spirit, and unwavering commitment to others will never be forgotten. In the wake of this heartbreaking tragedy, the community has come together to support each other, ensuring that Avery’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of students.
For those grieving this loss, the road ahead will not be easy, but they are not alone. The Spartan family stands together, united by the memory of a young woman who had so much to give and whose impact will be felt for years to come.
