Community Mourns Loss of Former Student

Clarke attended Rivers for just one year as a freshman before moving on to Brewster Academy, but he left a huge impression on the community and made many friends with whom he kept in touch. He was a member of the Class of 2021.

Athletics Director Keith Zalaski remembers Clarke fondly, calling him “a great kid with a big smile and an infectious laugh.

“Terrence attracted people to him of all ages,” Zalaski added, “and if you spent any time around him, you knew he was something special. We were able to get a close look at those things in his year at Rivers, and I know many people in the community followed his path from Brewster to Kentucky. The next step was the dream that motivated all things in his life, the NBA, and he was so close to getting there. It's a sad day in so many ways, and it's amazing the number of lives he touched in his short time here. All our thoughts are with his family, friends, coaches, and teammates who were able to be around him.”

Head of School Ned Parsons recalls Clarke as a “bright, affable student.” In a note to the Rivers community this morning, he said, “Though only here for a short time, he had many friends and made deep connections among his classmates and teammates. … Our community is saddened by the tragic loss of an outstanding young man.”

The school held a moment of silence in Clarke’s honor during the morning school assembly, and school counselors were prepared to work with students who might be struggling with the news of his passing.

More information about Clarke and the impact he had on his friends and teammates can be found in this New York Times article.