division of academic services
safe and healthy schools
Response to tragedy in Connecticut
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Our thoughts and prayers go out to the students, families, and school personnel who were affected by the school shooting in Connecticut. As educators, we can only begin to imagine how they are feeling as a result of this senseless act, but know that as a school community they will fight through this with the support of the entire nation.
We also want to reach out to you, our Duval Schools family, and assure you that we are thinking of you, as well. It's a horrible task to try to explain to a child what has happened, especially since it’s not understandable to us as adults. You will be needed by your children now more than ever.
I can assure you that we at the District are doing everything we can to make sure that everyone — students, educators and parents — are kept safe in our school environments.
When school resumes in January, our schools will remain vigilant to make sure that all visitors are checked in through the front office and that any suspicious activity is reported to an administrator immediately. We are also working to update our emergency response plan and will share and train all appropriate staff when school resumes after break. Please see the below links which include tips both school personnel and parents can use to help children talk through their emotions and fears by establishing a sense of safety and security in instances such as this. This may be helpful over the winter recess with your own young children, family, or friends as well as with your students in January.
Should you need additional resources when school resumes in January, please contact our District Crisis line at 904.390.2535 or an administrator at your school.
Nikolai P. Vitti, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
Important Resources
Letter from Arne Duncan, U.S. Secretary of Education
Dealing with a National Crisis: Tips for Parents and Schools
Talking to Children About Violence: Tips for Parents and Teachers
Things To Do When Talking to Students About Death
Talking to Children About Violence
Disaster Distress Helpline - Crisis Counseling (bilingual)
Safe Supportive Learning
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