Superintendent: Counselors On Hand to Talk with Students, Plans to Consider Security Measures

The letter below was sent by Superintendent Paul Stein to members of his email list.

Over the weekend, as the news coverage of the Newtown tragedy fills the airways, our principals and other administrators have been discussing how we can best prepare to welcome our students back to school tomorrow. Counselors have already worked to identify any children who, for whatever reason, might be emotionally vulnerable under these circumstances. Early morning staff meetings are scheduled at the elementary schools. Principals at all levels have been in touch with their faculty.

Most importantly, we want students to feel the safety of a calm and  structured school environment. In this context, school routines are very comforting. Our intent is to normalize the day while being sensitive to the impact of Friday's news and alert to our students' psychological needs. Classes and activities will go on as planned. If individual students need a forum to ask questions or discuss feelings, our counselors and teachers will certainly be ready and responsive.

A number of parents have emailed me regarding security in our schools. We actually had begun discussions about this very matter at The Children's Way and at our elementary schools. Now, we'll need to review and perhaps accelerate these plans -- as well as take a second look at our secondary schools. This will become a matter for discussion with the School Committee over the coming weeks.

I've received many links to helpful articles, four of which I've copied below. They each present thoughtful approaches to helping children cope with tragedy.

I'm always reminded, usually by the actions of students themselves, that our children are incredibly resilient. This is especially true when they are in the hands -- as they are -- of a caring and resilient community.

Please don't hesitate to call the school if you have any concerns regarding your child about which you want us to know.

Sincerely,

Paul Stein
Superintendent