Message from Dr. Garcia » Message from Dr. Garcia: Talking to Your Child About School Related Violence and School Safety

Message from Dr. Garcia: Talking to Your Child About School Related Violence and School Safety

Dear EMCSD Community,
 
Earlier today, there was another tragic school shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas. My heart aches for the Robb Elementary and Uvalde community.
 
Each time one of these tragedies occurs, I am reminded of the importance of compassion, empathy, and providing resources for students, staff, and families to access, especially in times of crisis or need. Undoubtedly, some of your students may be attending school tomorrow with heavy hearts, concerns, and unease.
 
The safety of our students, staff, and families is a priority for our District. We have safety plans in place at each of our schools that are reviewed, evaluated, and practiced. Each school has their own unique safety plans customized for their campus. We also meet with our local law enforcement officials to ensure our practices are up-to-date with the best preventative measures in place. That being said, our schools are the safest when we work together. If you or your students ever have any information regarding school safety, do not hesitate to notify your school office or local authorities. Tomorrow, the El Monte Police Department has offered to provide extra patrols around our schools to show solidarity with school communities and to promote school safety.
 
By working together we can help each other cope, stay safe, and ensure our schools remain places our students can learn and build positive relationships with others.
 
I do understand that these events can have various effects on ourselves and our children. Below are resources that may be helpful to you and your family when discussing school and community-based tragedies:
 
I also want to take this time to remind everyone of the resources available to you and students through LA County and National Resources:
  • 24/7 LA County Mental Health Support: (800) 854-7771: The Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health (LACDMH) supports the wellbeing of our County residents and communities. LACDMH’s Helpline is available 24/7 to provide mental health support, resources and referrals at (800) 854-7771.
  • Crisis Text Line: Text “LA” to 741741: Connect with a trained crisis counselor to receive free crisis support via text message.
  • Trevor Project Lifeline: (800) 788-7386: The TrevorLifeline provides support to LGBTQ youths and allies in crisis or in need of a safe and judgment-free place to talk.
  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (800) 273-8255: Connect with a crisis center closest to your location. Your call will be answered confidentially by a trained crisis worker who will listen empathetically, work to ensure that you are safe, and help identify options and information about mental health services in your area.
  • City of El Monte Police Department: (626) 580-2100 or dial 911
 
My prayers go out to the Uvalde community. 
Thank you for your partnership,
 
Dr. Maribel Garcia
Superintendent