Berkley School District issued the following announcement on Nov 30.
We are all shocked and saddened by this afternoon’s events at Oxford High School. Our hearts go out to the entire Oxford community and all of those impacted by today’s tragedy. We know Berkley Schools community members and students may have friends and family in the Oxford community. Our hearts are with you, too.
As our children, no matter their ages, learn or hear of these events, they may have questions or express concerns. Please know that by expressing concerns they are looking for reassurance that they are safe. Listening to them, offering them reassurance, and giving them a hug, no matter their age, is critical. Additionally, the National Association of School Psychologists also has many tips about talking to children about violence on their website. While speaking with your children, please remind them to find a trusted adult when something doesn’t seem right, if they learn of any threats in person or online, or have any concerns about safety in their school. Speaking up can make a difference.
Our District’s counselors, psychologists and social workers will be available as always to help any child who may be having a difficult time. Finally, as adults, we are all shaken and disturbed by this. We too need time to process these events. If you are having difficulty, please speak with relatives, friends, or contact one of our administrators who will help put you in touch with someone who can help.
When tragedy strikes, especially when it is close to home, it’s natural to wonder what the District is doing to keep our students safe. Please know that every school in our District has emergency procedures in place which are routinely practiced and reviewed. These include fire drills, tornado drills and district-wide emergency drills, including training in ALICE protocols. Our safety protocols also include locked doors and secured entrances, and close relationships with our public safety departments. It also includes developing relationships with all our staff and students.
The Berkley School District is committed to our community and to the safety of our students and staff. Together we will help each other get through this very difficult time, while we offer our support to the Oxford community.
Original source can be found here.
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