Important Notification About the “13 Reasons Why” Netflix Series

Letter released by Brewster School District on April 21st regarding Netflix series:

Dear Parents and Teachers,

I recently learned about a popular Selena Gomez produced Netflix Series entitled 13 Reasons Why. The series portrays a young girl explaining why she committed suicide. It is my understanding that this series has been streaming on Netflix since the end of March and has rapidly gained popularity among young people. Furthermore, it is also my understanding that the manner in which the series is promoted and advertised may not have garnered the attention of parents as to its sensitive and complex content.

The series is based upon the 2007 novel Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher and is intended for teens or young adults. However, 13 Reasons Why contains mature subject matter including graphic depictions of rape, drug use and suicide. If you have a child in the middle school or the high school, he/she are likely aware of the series and may have even watched some, or all, of the episodes.

While I make no judgements about the intent of the producers of this series, we know that social media and sophisticated marketing of products can sometimes unintentionally portray messages that confuse teenagers who are struggling with puberty, popularity, sexuality and belonging.

The intent of this letter is to inform you about the series and provide you with some resources to assist in having conversations with your children, if you wish. In addition, you may always contact your child’s principal, assistant principal, school counselor, social worker, or psychologist if you need their assistance. Below are some commonly referenced resources disseminated by school districts:

1. National Association of School Psychologists’ Guidance for educators http://www.nasponline.org/resources-and-publications/resources/school-safety-and-crisis/preventing-youth-suicide/13-reasons-why-netflix-series-considerations-for-educators

2. 13 Reasons Tip Sheet from SAVE.org and the JED Foundation
https://www.save.org/?s=13+Reasons+Why

3. 13 Reason Why Trailer that provides the basic storyline for the series:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yDz4WbDy0CQ

4. 13 Reasons Why Original Trailer:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JebwYGn5Z3E

In Brewster, we have experienced tragedies that have left children and adults alike deeply saddened and marked by these experiences. We take seriously the mental and physical well being of our students and want to protect them so that they live long, productive and happy lives.

Warmly,

Valerie Henning-Piedmonte, Ed. D.
Superintendent of Schools