Dear PSD Community,  

Our hearts and condolences go out to the families of the victims of today’s tragic shooting in Connecticut.  As educators, we spend our careers protecting children and today’s violence is heartbreaking.

The safety and wellbeing of students and staff is the top priority in Poudre School District. We have worked closely with local law enforcement to implement security measures to ensure that schools remain safe learning environments for children. These include:

• A single point of entry to the school (many of which were recently retrofitted through the 2010 Bond)
• Security video cameras at each school (many of which will be enhanced through the 2010 Bond)
• Sign-in procedures for all visitors with identifying badges
• Lock-down and lock-out drills that are routinely practiced at each school
• Ongoing threat assessment protocols
• Emergency response training and heightened awareness of building leaders

As the situation in Connecticut continues to unfold, please know that PSD is ready to support students with concerns or fears when they return on Monday. If your student is having issues dealing with the Connecticut situation, please have him/her visit with their school counselor next week. Counselors have access to trained mental health professionals and resources that can support students through this emotional event.

Additionally, below are some tips for parents when discussing the Connecticut tragedy:

1) Collect your thoughts before speaking to your student.
2) Reassure your student that he/she is safe.
3) Remain calm. The more calm parents remain while delivering information, the easier it is for students to process. Students look to parents as role models. Your reaction will guide their response.
4) Minimize student access to media reports about the shooting. Media reports can raise anxiety.
5) Take advantage of community resources for mental health support:
      a. Mental Health Connections (24-hour support): 221-5551
      b. Touchstone Health Partners: 494-4200

Like you, I am horrified by today’s tragedy. But I am thankful that PSD is part of a caring community committed to keeping our children safe.

Thank you for your continued support of PSD.

Sincerely,

Nancy Wright Ed.D
Superintendent