Today’s National Events and Our Plans
January 6, 2021
Dear Families:
I write in response to events that occurred this afternoon in Washington D.C. and continue to evolve this evening. This unprecedented use of violence to threaten the democratic process is intolerable and unacceptable. This country prides itself on a peaceful approach to leadership and governance. The public schools are key components in ensuring access to education for all and the future of democracy. For us to do anything but abhor what happened today would disgrace the core values on which we operate. This is not a political discussion. It is a discussion of what is important and what we believe as Americans.
We are prepared to provide a structured response for all students tomorrow. It is best to acknowledge today’s events age appropriately. Upper elementary, middle, and high school students will convene in brief discussions with the staff as to the events of what transpired. We will stress the following facts:
- we are all currently safe
- violence is unacceptable
- the American democratic processes must be protected
The youngest students will guide us in their need for discussion at an individual or group level through their questions. Individual students at all levels will be encouraged to voice a need for support or request time with a counselor. Of course, as parents, please reach out to our counseling and administrative staff about your child’s needs or your needs as parents.
I included resources listed below for you in how to support young people during traumatic events. These documents will guide you but clearly, at the core, it is about relationships. Creating environments where those relationships are the focus is the key to our success during difficult times. The chronic crisis brought by COVID has shown our strengths as a caring, extraordinary community. I trust that this newest difficult, painful chapter will result in the best of us all coming together at the local, community, and national level.
Thank you so very much for the support and partnership.
Best,
Laurie
Talking with Your Children About Traumatic Events
Talking to Children About Violence