Fulton Ask Students To Self-Reflect, Treat Others Respectfully

FULTON COUNTY, GA — Fulton Schools Superintendent Mike Looney wrote a letter this weekend to acknowledge the death of George Floyd, and how it may be impacting students.

"While I recognize that school is not in regular session at this time, I still feel compelled to reach out to you in an effort to acknowledge the pain, fear and anger that many, if not all of you, must be feeling," Looney wrote. "The death of Mr. George Floyd and others are a travesty and serve as a stark reminder that our nation still has important work to do in creating a culture where everyone is valued and treated with dignity and respect. To this end, I firmly believe positive change can take place when everyone commits to self-reflection and change. Your teachers, administrators and other school personnel are doing so now as we plan for the upcoming school year. We want you to know that you are cared for and that we are all committed to working hard at creating a great learning environment for all students."

Prior to the students returning to school, Looney said he is requesting that students engage in self-reflection.

"We all must ask ourselves how we perceive and interact with others," he wrote. "I ask that you help us focus on improving by committing to treating your classmates, teachers, and neighbors in a kind, caring, and mutually respectful manner."

When Looney was a young United States Marine, he said he learned that regardless of where his fellow Marines hailed from, the color of their skin, their dialect or any other superficial differences, he could count on them, and they could count on him.

"At the end of the day, we were all United States Marines," Looney wrote. "We all had much more in common than differences, and that is true of us today as well.

"I contend that all FCS students are filled with unique talents and gifts to be shared with the world. Every single one of you is special. You each deserve to feel welcome, wanted and worthwhile in our schools. Additionally, we each have a responsibility to create such an environment for one another. Please join me in this quest. Commit to treating your peers, teachers, and those in your sphere of influence with dignity and respect. I promise you it matters and will help us create the change we all desire and deserve."

Additionally, Looney has tasked members of the Fulton County School team to create a resource guide for student and parents. The guide will list resources to help navigate the emotions students are feeling.

"Research indicates that it is healthy to talk about your feelings," Looney said.
Please find someone to talk with, such as your parents or loved ones, about your emotions. You may also contact a trusted teacher, school counselor or other school official. We are here, we care, and we will listen.

"In closing, I want to reinforce the significance and seriousness of the issue at hand. There is no room in Fulton County Schools for racism, intolerance or bigotry."