Superintendent's Message
We are all extremely saddened by the events that took place at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut, on Friday. Our thoughts are with all of those who have been impacted by this tragic incident.
As we mourn the tremendous loss of these children and educators, we also recognize the impact events like these have on our own school communities, our students and their families.
Please be assured that safety is a top priority for Special School District of St. Louis County. We have plans in place for each of our school buildings to deal with emergency situations. Safety measures include monthly drills, including intruder drills, as well as monitored access points at all of our schools.
Each of our schools will offer crisis counseling to help students who have been affected by these events. If your child would like to speak to someone at school about his or her feelings, concerns or fears, please let us know or encourage him or her to reach out to a trusted adult. It is critical that our students feel safe at school so they are free to learn.
Listed below are some links to resources that may be helpful as you choose how to address this tragedy with your children.
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National Association of School Psychologists:
Coping with Crisis — Helping Children With Special Needs
http://www.nasponline.org/resources/crisis_safety/specpop_general.aspx
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National Association of School Psychologists:
A National Tragedy: Helping Children Cope
http://www.nasponline.org/resources/crisis_safety/terror_general.aspx
If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact your school principal, Lorie Arnsman Schwartz, at 314.989.8700.
Sincerely,
John C. Cary
Superintendent, Special School District of St. Louis County
