LEWISTON – A Mexico teenager, who was caught under water in the Swift River this week, died Friday at Central Maine Medical Center.

After the death of 16-year-old Kali Calden, Mountain Valley High School Principal Bruce Lindberg said the Rumford school would be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. today, June 26, for continued grief counseling.

“We may be open further if we need to be. We’re saddened by the whole thing,” said Lindberg, who made himself available Friday and brought in social workers, guidance counselors and teachers to help parents and youths cope with the tragedy.

Calden, who had finished her sophomore year at Mountain Valley 12 days ago, was swept under a boulder in a pool, where the river’s strong current kept her submerged for about 20 minutes Wednesday afternoon.

A Med-Care Ambulance crew, trained in swift water and rope rescue techniques, recovered the girl using ropes.

She was taken to Rumford Hospital and then to CMMC in Lewiston.

Lindberg said school officials began receiving calls Friday morning from parents and youths, asking if the school would be open and if counselors would be available.

He described Calden as “a very nice young lady,” saying she was upbeat, optimistic and always had a smile on her face.

“She always stood in the front doorway every day with her group of friends and welcomed people to school. Good morning, how’re you doing?’ she’d ask,” Lindberg added.

For information about counseling, people may phone Lindberg at 364-4547, ext. 128.