A local middle school student has died, according to school district officials who called the girl’s death “tragic and unexpected.”

Newton student Barbara Zheng has died, Superintendent Anna Nolin announced on Tuesday.

“Earlier today, we learned of the tragic and unexpected death of Barbara Zheng, a student at Brown Middle School,” the superintendent said in a statement.

“Our entire district is deeply saddened and have been in communication with the Zheng family, who have requested that their privacy be respected during this extremely difficult time,” Nolin added.

Newton Mayor Ruthanne Fuller shared the superintendent’s message in an email.

“My thoughts are with the Zheng family and with those who knew and loved Barbara,” the mayor added. “The ache from the death of a young person is so deep… As we navigate these difficult days, I hope that we can lean on each other with care, gentleness and support.”

The officials shared resources related to: coping with sudden death and loss, tips for teens who are grieving, talking to your children about stressful events, and more.

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“I recognize that death affects children in different ways and wanted to remind you that our guidance counselors are available to provide support and resources to your children here, at school,” the superintendent wrote.

The Newton Health and Human Services Department also suggested videos to help people address traumatic events.