Sunday, December 16, 2012

Responding to Tragedy


Lowell Families,

It is with a very heavy heart that I write this message to you.  I, like you, have been devastated by the news of the school shooting that occurred in Connecticut on Friday.  My deepest condolences go out to the Newtown community.

The tragic events in Connecticut have caused our thoughts to turn inward and think about our own community.  The Lowell School remains vigilant in its commitment to safety.  A district wide, comprehensive safety plan is in place and is updated frequently.  As a part of this plan, we work in partnership with local police and fire departments to ensure our schools are safe and secure.  Immediately, we will review these plans and protocols with a new perspective.  Our first priority, as always, remains the safety and welfare of our students and staff.

This is undoubtedly a troubling time for parents of elementary school aged children.  Below you will find some very helpful resources to help you and your children cope with the feelings brought on by this tragedy.




We will welcome students Monday morning as they arrive at school and classrooms with warm greetings, smiles and reassuring welcomes to ensure a sense of comfort and security, recognizing that students will be returning to school with varying levels of awareness of the shootings.   We do not plan on having large assemblies but we will be ready to respond to our children in developmentally appropriate ways to ensure them that they are safe at school. 

Our guidance counselor, Mrs Knight, will be available all day and after school if you or your child is in need of support.  And, as always, my door is open to you.


Best,
Elizabeth Kaplan

No comments:

Post a Comment