October 5th, 2026

It is with a very heavy heart that the Eastwood School community mourns the loss of Kaden Hammond. 

Kaden was an amazing kid who brought so much of himself into the world. He was a talented artist who was part of our integrated arts program. He could spend hours drawing, creating masks, puppets, bracelets, writing stories and bringing his characters to life through digital animation. He loved video games, nature, and  animals.

As a part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, Kaden was also a strong advocate for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth through building community, fostering good mental health and creating spaces where young people can feel seen, accepted, and supported.

In honour of Kaden the flags at the school and the Waterloo Region District School Board Education Centre will be flown at half mast this week.

Please check in with your child in the days to come. If you have any concerns about your child, please do not hesitate to contact the school to discuss support.

Our thoughts are with the Hammond family at this time.