When Lowellville students return to the classroom on Wednesday several steps are being taken to help them adjust and cope following last Thursday's self-inflicted, fatal shooting of a 13-year-old boy in the cafeteria.

In a letter sent to families, parents are told that when students arrive at school they will be greeted by staff at the doors. Staff will walk students to their classrooms if necessary.

Students will also not enter through the cafeteria doors or wait in the cafeteria.

During lunch, a second cafeteria has been set up in the small gym.

Students who do not feel comfortable eating the regular cafeteria will have the option to eat in the gym. The small gym will also have grab-and-go items for those who do not feel comfortable going through the lunch line.

A team of therapy dogs from P.A.W.S Therapy Team will also be in both cafeterias to visit with students.

In addition, an increased police presence will be on hand, counselors will be stationed throughout the building, in classrooms and in the cafeterias. 

On Thursday of last week, police from several communities rushed to the school after investigators say the student shot himself in the cafeteria.

Less than a week later, the Mahoning County Coroner confirmed the death of the 13 year-old student.