Students and staff at CABE in Coquitlam where Amanda Todd went to school are asking the public to give them time and space to deal with their grief.
In a statement issued Monday by School District 43, the Coquitlam Alternative Basic Education school said Todd chose the school because it is a small, tight-knit community where "she could feel safe and cared for."
"We were able to wrap supports around her and give her a fresh start. Amanda was a caring, sensitive student who was deeply connected to the students in her class and her teachers. She was eager to be well, and move forward with her life. She was open about her on going struggles and hopeful for her own wellness and the ability to help other students."
The statement also said the school is respecting the wishes of the family to not divulge personal information about Amanda. "Our focus is shifting to caring for the members of our school community that have been deeply impacted by this tragedy," the statement said.
However, other media have been delving into circumstances leading up to the death of the Port Coquitlam 15-year-old who committed suicide last Wednesday after an alleged campaign of prolonged bullying. The Vancouver Sun reported last week that Todd was victimized by a blackmailer who threatened to distribute an image of her unless she put on a web cam show for him. When she didn't he distributed the pictures, which were then reposted by others.
Police aren't commenting on whether they are tracking a suspected internet child lurer, but last Friday issued a call for pertinent information via email at [email protected]
On Saturday, according to the Globe and Mail, the RCMP announced it had received more than 400 tips.
Concerns that people continue to re-victimize Todd prompted police to hold a press conference on Saturday where RCMP Sgt. Peter Thiessen asked people to please stop posting inappropriate comments and pictures of Amanda, according to CBC. Thiessen was also reported as saying that those who post inappropriate comments could face legal action.
Meanwhile, Todd's mother Carol, a Coquitlam teacher, told the Vancouver Sun that the video her daughter made before she died should be shared and used as an anti-bullying message.
School District 43 is putting together a list of resources for parents about bullying and will make it available soon, said spokesperson Cheryl Quinton.
