From the Superintendent: Our Thoughts are with MSU

Dear CCS families,

It pains me to have to send this message to you today. As I am sure you are aware, a mass shooting last night at Michigan State University took the lives of three individuals and injured several others. I share my deepest sympathy and support for the students, staff, and families of the MSU community. 

Talking with staff and students today, I’ve heard firsthand the connections we have to MSU. However, even those without a close tie may feel the magnitude of this tragedy. When something like this occurs, it rattles us and evokes emotions. With that said, we have our Crisis Team available to talk with any students or staff members needing additional support. 

For families seeking a way to talk with their children about yesterday’s events, you may find the following resources helpful: 

• Talking To Children About Violence: Tips For Families And Educators

• Mental Health America 

• National Association of School Psychologists Article: Talking to Children About Violence

• Coping with Community Crisis | Harvard Graduate School of Education

• Talking to your children about the recent spate of school shootings

• K-2 grade and 3-5 grade safety in schools.

While it is unknown what prompted the shooting, and not for me to speculate, I would like to remind you that there are ways to seek help if you are experiencing distress. If you or someone you know needs help, here are several resources and ways to report your concerns: 

• OK2Say program

• Mental Health Resources for All Ages

• Easterseals

• Common Ground

In Clarkston, nothing is more important than the safety and well-being of our students and staff. There is a fine line between maintaining normalcy in our classrooms and keeping our buildings safe, but we have several measures in place to ensure the safety of our staff and students to the best of our ability. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at feedback@clarkston.k12.mi.us.

Sincerely,

Dr. Shawn Ryan

 

About Clarkston Community Schools: Clarkston is a highly regarded school district with an enrollment of over 6,500 students. We have seven elementary schools (K-5), one middle school serving grades 6-7, one junior high for grades 8-9, and Clarkston High School, which serves students in grades 10-12. We also have a virtual academy, an Early Childhood Center serving children ages 3-5, and an alternative high school/community education facility. Clarkston Community Schools students are well-prepared for a future that excites them, and believe that they can achieve their dreams. The mission of Clarkston Community Schools is to create a learning environment where students, staff, and families are challenged, healthy, engaged, safe, and supported.

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Read more Clarkston Community Schools News at www.clarkston.k12.mi.us/news.

Questions or Feedback? Email feedback@clarkston.k12.mi.us

Media Contact: Kelly Allen, Director of Marketing and Community Relations (248) 623-5460.