Following the senseless violence at Robb Elementary School yesterday [Superintendent Statement], local educators, parents, and caretakers are mourning along with the families and community members in Uvalde, Texas. Young people and adults alike are struggling with emotions caused by this horrific act of violence.
Safety, health, and wellness are the highest priorities for our learning community. As educators, we must be committed and intentional in our mission to address the ongoing social and emotional needs of our school communities and beyond. Classrooms are often the place where students feel most comfortable asking questions and processing their feelings. Therefore, it is imperative that we help them engage in honest conversations that allow them to make sense of complexities and injustices in their communities.
Links to Resources
The following resources may be helpful as families and educators address student concerns, engaging in conversations with empathy, sensitivity, and compassion.
Tools for Teachers
- Teaching in the Wake of Violence—resources addressing racism, antisemitism, and prejudice at pivotal moments in history
- Creating a Toolbox for Care—helps students identify resources they can tap in the wake of traumatic news
- Teachers: Protecting Your Mental Health—tips on supporting teacher wellness
- Truth for Teachers Podcast—practical classroom ideas to help educators build a positive mindset
Information for Families
- Talking to Children About Violence: Tips for Parents and Teachers (English and Spanish)
- Helping Children Cope with Frightening News
- Parent Guidelines for Helping Youth After the Recent Shooting (English and Spanish)
- Coping in the Aftermath of a Shooting
- How to Talk to Kids About School Shootings—age-appropriate suggestions to help kids feel safe again
- Helping Children Cope With Terrorism—tips for families and educators (English, Amharic, Chinese, French, Korean, Spanish, and Vietnamese)
- National Parent Helpline—call (855) 427-2736 to get emotional support from a trained advocate, M–F, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Tips for Managing Distress Following a Mass Shooting
Crisis Intervention
- California Youth Crisis Line—statewide, 24/7 emergency response system for youth (ages 12–24) and families in crisis
- Crisis Text Line—crisis counseling available, 24/7, by texting HOME to 741-741
- Crisis Services in Sacramento County
Update 5/26/22: Added additional links.