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News today of the shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, is horrifying. The impact of this tragic event is being felt across the country. The Frederick County Public Schools family shares in grieving with the Uvalde Consolidated Independent School District. Our hearts go out to the victims, their families, and the Uvalde community.
Not only is the physical safety of our students of utmost importance to us but so are their social-emotional well-being and mental health. To support the well-being of our students, additional central office staff (school psychologists, social workers, pupil personnel workers) will be available to each of our schools tomorrow for any students and staff who need support. In addition, staff will be provided with resources to address concerns or fears children may have while at school.
As a reminder, we take many safety precautions in our schools and office facilities to ensure doors remain locked and visitors are properly checked in. We also practice the Avoid-Deny-Defend method to ensure students and staff are familiar with how to respond in emergency situations. In an effort to prevent violence before it happens, we encourage our students, staff and school community members to follow the “See Something, Say Something” approach to assist us in proactively investigating any potential threats.
Families can help their young ones by actively listening to them and being present. The following resources are available if you or your child(ren) need additional support:
Talking to Children About Violence: Tips for Parents and Teachers (National Association of School Psychologists, 2016) Dial 211: Frederick County 211 Mental Health Services
FCPS is committed to ensuring our schools are safe places for all students, staff and visitors. The safety of our schools is not something we can do alone. As a community, we must continue standing together and supporting each other. The violent act that took place today can only be stopped when communities come together and work together.