(Updated 4:45-p.m. 12/19) Students and staff at the IKM-Manning School District are mourning the loss of a Freshman. In a letter posted on the District’s website, Friday, Superintendent Trevor Miller said “It is with a great deal of sadness that I am informing you that Max Sanford, one of our 9th grade students, passed unexpected this [Friday] morning. Our condolences and thoughts go out to the Sanford family and friends, and to all Max’s friends and fellow students.”

Miller said grief counseling services are available to students and staff. He said also, “During this time of grief, please respect the family’s privacy.” Late Friday morning, the school announced the IKM-Manning basketball games vs. Tri-Center for Friday night, had been postponed. On the District’s social media page, the East Sac Community School District posted a message from students and staff, offering their deepest condolences, thoughts and prayers, to the IKM-Manning community.

Funeral services for MAX SANFORD will be held 10:30-a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 23rd, at the IKM-Manning School in Manning. Friends may call at the IKM-Manning gymnasium on Tue., Dec. 22nd, from 4-until 7-p.m.