Friday, February 16, 2018

Franklin Public Schools: Message in response to event in Parkland, FL

Dear Franklin Families and Colleagues,

It is with a heavy heart that I write to convey deep sadness for the tragic loss of life at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. We are heartbroken for the students, their families, and our colleagues.

I am sure many in our school community are asking: How safe are the Franklin schools? and How can we support students as more details emerge?

The safety and well-being of Franklin students and staff are our highest priority. Our buildings remain locked and well-supervised when school is in session; all visitors must check in at reception upon arrival and present identification. Security cameras provide coverage around all of our buildings. We have open communication with the Franklin Fire and Police Departments, and our response teams regularly review and practice safety protocols and procedures through training with staff and students. Additionally, we continue to refine our practices through continuing education on best practices within the field of school safety. Parents or staff members with concerns about safety should contact the building principal with specific questions.

We also stress climate and culture in each of our schools, centering our work around core values and relationships. It is important that each student feels connected to an adult and we strive to ensure we have supports in place to help students in crisis. We emphasize the importance of speaking up when there is a concern, and we have examples when students, parents/guardians, and staff have come forward to bring a concern about a friend or classmate to an administrator's attention.

You may be looking for resources to ensure that our students are supported as they learn more about the tragic event in Florida. This resource, from the American Psychological Association, may be of assistance to you: http://www.apa.org/topics/violence/school-shooting.aspx

Counselors, teachers, and administrators are available to help any student who may be experiencing difficulty as a result of the news. Please reach out to any member of the administration if we can be of help in any way.

With respect,

Sara E. Ahern, Ed.D.
Superintendent

Oak St/Horace Mann schools
Oak St/Horace Mann schools

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