In Loving Memory of beloved students of Snider High School Marching Band, Donovan Cammalleri

It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we share the heartbreaking news of the unexpected passing of  beloved students of Snider High School Marching Band, Donovan Cammalleri, a current 10th grader at our school. The shock of this loss has rippled through our halls, leaving an absence that will be deeply felt by classmates, teachers, and the entire school community.

A Bright Light Among Us

Donovan was a vibrant, kind-hearted, and dedicated student whose presence made a meaningful difference in every space he entered. Whether it was in the classroom, at band rehearsal, or during engineering labs, Donovan brought with him a genuine enthusiasm for learning and an energy that uplifted those around him. He was the kind of student who not only excelled academically, but also made others feel welcome and supported.

A proud and enthusiastic member of our marching band, Donovan had a passion for music and performance that was impossible to miss. His spirit, camaraderie, and commitment to the team left an impact not just on performances, but on the culture of the band itself. He brought joy to rehearsals, gave his all during performances, and made connections that ran deep with fellow bandmates.

Donovan was also deeply engaged in our engineering program, where his natural curiosity and drive for innovation shined brightly. Teachers often spoke of his thoughtfulness and determination—always eager to take on a challenge, collaborate with classmates, and explore new ideas. He approached projects with excitement and was often seen helping others, not for praise, but simply because he cared.

A Profound Loss

This loss is truly profound. Donovan touched so many lives in such a short time—his classmates, teachers, friends, and school staff all carry cherished memories of his time here. The sorrow we feel reflects the love and respect we had for him and the bright future we all saw ahead.

Our hearts go out to the Cammalleri and Follo families, whose pain we cannot imagine but with whom we stand in unity and support. To his friends who are grieving, to the educators who guided him, and to everyone who had the privilege of knowing Donovan: know that you are not alone.

Support for Our School Community

In response to this tragedy, grief counselors and mental health support services are available to all students and staff who may need someone to talk to. Processing loss—especially at such a young age—is deeply personal and often overwhelming. We encourage anyone struggling with Donovan’s passing to reach out to our school counselors, who are here to listen, support, and help guide us through this difficult time.

Details regarding memorial services and opportunities to honor Donovan’s life and memory will be shared in the coming days. We will create space for remembrance, for stories, and for celebration of the incredible person he was.

Honoring Donovan’s Legacy

Though words can only capture a fraction of who Donovan was, we can keep his spirit alive through the way we treat one another—with the same kindness, compassion, and warmth he offered so freely. Let us remember Donovan not only for his talents and accomplishments but for his big heart, his bright smile, and his eagerness to learn, share, and connect.

As we mourn this heartbreaking loss, may we also lean on one another. Let us come together as a community—not just in grief, but in love, support, and the shared hope that Donovan’s memory will live on through every note of music, every moment of discovery, and every act of kindness we extend in his honor.

Donovan Cammalleri, you will always be in our hearts.
You were—and always will be—a cherished part of our school family.