The tragic events that took place in Boston have really brought home to me the theme that we, as families and communities, need to work to ensure that our children have opportunities to discuss and "process" these scary events in safe and healthy ways. I wanted to provide you some helpful hints and suggestions that come from an article published by the National Association of School Psychologists. High profile acts of violence can confuse and frighten children who may feel in danger or worry that their friends or loved-ones are at risk. They will look to adults for information and guidance on how to react. Parents and school personnel can help children feel safe by establishing a sense of normalcy and security and talking with them about their fears. 1. Reassure children that they are safe. 2. Make time to talk. Let their questions be your guide as to how much information to provide. Be patient. Children and youth do not always talk about their feelings readily. 3. Keep your explanations appropriate for the age of your child. - Upper elementary and early middle school children will be more vocal in asking questions about whether they truly are safe and what is being done at their school. They may need assistance separating reality from fantasy. Discuss efforts of school and community leaders to provide safe schools. - Upper middle school and high school students will have strong and varying opinions about the causes of violence in schools and society. They will share concrete suggestions about how to make school safer and how to prevent tragedies in society. Emphasize the role that students have in maintaining safe schools by following school safety guidelines (e.g. not providing
building access to strangers, reporting strangers on campus, reporting threats to school safety made by students or community members, etc.), communicating any personal safety concerns to school administrators, and accessing support for emotional needs. 4. Review safety procedures. This should include procedures and safeguards at school and at home. 5. Limit television viewing of these events. Limit television viewing and be aware if the television is on in common areas. 6. Maintain a normal routine. Keeping to a regular schedule can be reassuring and promote physical health. Please take a few moments to consider your family's readiness and your preparation to discuss these kinds of events with your child. While no one wishes the kinds of horrific events that took place in Boston on anyone, we need to be prepared to ensure that our own children feel safe and empowered to make healthy decisions about the world around them. Thank you for your continued support and for allowing us the honor of serving you and your children.
Respectfully, Zan Hess
Remind Your Student…
Cell Phones are to remain off and away when on school grounds. If students are feeling ill or need to call home, we encourage them to come to the office.
Local Option Levy Election
May 21, 2013
The Beaverton School District will place a 5-‐year Local Option Levy on the May 21, 2013 ballot. If approved by voters, the levy could provide the District with about $15 million per year in additional operating funds to prevent teacher position cuts and protect class size.
Due to repeated state funding shortfalls over the past five years, Beaverton has cut $142 million, eliminating 16 school days, 640 teacher positions and increasing
