Dear FCPS Parents and Community Members,
All of us were deeply saddened and disturbed by yesterday’s tragic events. The events in Florida, like events we have seen in other communities, are especially troubling for parents and educators. We all believe and trust that our schools should be safe and nurturing environments for our children. To have that trust violated by acts of violence is beyond words.
Please know that all of us with Frederick County Public Schools understand that the safety of our students and staff is our most fundamental responsibility. We hold that responsibility sacred. FCPS staff members in our schools and in our Central Office work every day to make sure our schools are safe. We work hand-in-hand with law enforcement to make sure we have the best practices and procedures in place to both prevent and respond to a variety of emergency situations. Along with continuing to talk about these practices and procedures with each other and our students, our schools regularly practice them to increase our preparedness.
Our best and most important tool to keep our schools safe, however, is to develop positive and trusting relationships and open communication with our students and families. We will continue to partner with you and your child to ensure a supportive and safe school environment.
Across FCPS today, counselors, administrators, and teachers were there to help any students who were trying to process yesterday's events. We will be there in the coming days, weeks, and months as well. We also want to be able to help you have these difficult, yet important, conversations at home. The following suggestions come from the National Association of School Psychologists:
While we hope to never again see events like yesterday’s tragedy, FCPS is committed to continuing to work to make sure our schools are safe for all children.