Imani Christian Academy is reeling after the tragic, sudden death of 14-year-old Jaiquawn Jay, a seventh-grade student who collapsed during basketball practice. The Allegheny County Coroner has confirmed his passing, plunging the school and broader community into deep sorrow.
Jaiquawn reportedly became unresponsive during a break in practice and later died while being rushed to Children’s Hospital. The circumstances have left classmates, teachers, and parents struggling with shock and grief, trying to make sense of the loss of such a young life.
In response to the tragedy, Imani Christian Academy has changed its morning routine to give students and staff space to process what happened. The school has also brought in counselors to offer support, recognizing that this is a profoundly difficult moment for everyone who knew Jaiquawn.
School leaders are calling on the community to lift Jaiquawn’s family, his friends, and the entire school in their thoughts and prayers. They emphasize that coming together now is more important than ever, and they continue to work on sharing grief resources and support services in the days ahead.
Though no official public statement has been released beyond the initial announcement, the academy’s internal communications show a school that deeply cares. The leadership’s priority right now is not just mourning but making sure students and staff feel supported and heard.
Friends, teammates, and teachers are honoring Jaiquawn for who he was—full of spark, energy, and kindness. Even in their sadness, they’re remembering his laughter in the gym, his drive on the court, and the way he made ordinary days feel lighter.
This heartbreaking moment is a stark reminder of how fragile life can be, and how much one life—even one so young—can touch a community. Imani Christian Academy is rallying together now, holding space for grief, leaning on each other, and trying to carry forward Jaiquawn’s memory in everything they do. Rest in peace, Jaiquawn Jay—your spirit lives on in the hearts of all who knew you.
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