In response to the school shooting in Texas

Dear Robbinsdale Area School families,

There are no words that help express the profound sadness, hopelessness or anger we’re collectively feeling in the wake of another school shooting. These emotions are especially heavy on this rainy Wednesday afternoon as we learn more details about the tragedy and about the lives who were lost due to this violent act. 

The senseless massacre that happened yesterday in the Uvalde Consolidated Independent School District in Texas is incomprehensible. Like others around the country, we mourn the loss of the 19 students and two teachers who simply went to school like they did on every other day. Our hearts ache for the entire community who will feel the sorrow and impact of this heinous act for years to come. Tragic events like what happened at Robb Elementary School impact us all.

News like this is made all the more challenging as we think of our own children, and we struggle with how or what to share with them. Here are a few resources that might help you talk to your child about school shootings: 

• Talking to Children About School Shootings (National Association of School Psychologists)
• Very Well Family provides open-ended questions to discuss school shootings with your child.

We also know that after something like this happens, some families may find it difficult to send their children to school and some may have concerns about safety in our schools. All of our schools have safety teams in place and regularly conduct lockdown and fire safety drills, but implement additional safety protocols to practice prevention and response measures to potential incidents.

Rdale also has tools in place in our schools, including Gaggle Speak Up, a confidential student tip line monitored by licensed staff 24/7/365 to share safety concerns.

Other anti-bullying, anti-violence efforts now in our schools include Second Step in K-8 schools, Building Assets, Reducing Risks (BARR) in high schools, Safe and Civil Schools, restorative practices, and trauma responsiveness. We have also recently met with Sandy Hook Promise on three occasions, and we are exploring ways to use their curricular options and resources.

Our counselors, school psychologists, social workers and support staff are available to meet with students, as needed. If you have concerns about your student’s reaction to this news, contact your school or talk to your student’s teacher to learn about the resources available.

Sincerely,

David Engstrom, Superintendent
Robbinsdale Area Schools