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:

 

My prayers go out to the Uvalde community. 
Thank you for your partnership,
 
Dr. Maribel Garcia
Superintendent