Letter from Ridgefield Superintendent of Schools Susie Da Silva

Schools, like our homes, are intended to be safe places, where children can come to learn, play and grow.  We were reminded today that this is not always the case.  The unthinkable happened.  Again. We can only imagine the horrors that the families of the Robb Elementary School victims are experiencing.  We will pray for all of those impacted by the devastating, senseless acts that took place today in Uvalde.

When a tragedy like this occurs, it is natural to worry about our own children, and wonder if they are safe when they go off to school. While our schools have security measures and systems in place, we also know that we can always be better.  Our team has met and will continue to meet in the coming days to ensure that we are implementing our safety practices as effectively as possible.  As your children arrive at school, we want them to know that Ridgefield is a safe community, as are our schools.

  • We have reviewed our current protocols and with that, you may notice a greater level of security activity
  • There will be greater presence of police in and around our schools- cars may not be marked
  • Each of our school crisis teams are ready and prepared to mobilize if necessary
  • Visitors will experience greater vigilance in screening prior to entering our facilities or grounds

I know that we will all work to protect the innocence of childhood, yet it is likely that even our youngest children will have heard of today's events or perhaps, even seen images.  We are prepared to help our students navigate the fear, confusion, anxiety, and questions that will naturally arise tomorrow and in the coming days and weeks. We are fortunate to be staffed with mental health supports: psychologists, counselors, and social workers who are prepared and available to all of our students.

Our students will be welcomed tomorrow by our faculty- who care deeply about each and every one of them.  They will enter classrooms that are filled with compassion and care- we know that they are in good hands.  

Each of our schools will be sending a follow-up communication with resources to support you during this incredibly difficult time in our country.  And, as always, please reach out to us with any concerns or questions.  

With sadness,

R
Submitted by Ridgefield, CT

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