Sudbury Public Schools: We'll Be Ready to Support Your Students

UPDATED: 1:57 P.M., APRIL 20

Sudbury Public Schools is preparing for the return of students on Monday when April vacation ends by offering support to those who need it in the wake of the Boston Marathon bombings.

In an email sent by Superintendent Anne Wilson, SPS will be aware of students who "require our attention and support."

"Each child and adult will process the information in a unique way," Wilson wrote, "and we will do everything in our power to provide a consistent and supportive environment in all Sudbury public schools."

Three people were killed in the bombings while more than 170 were injured.

An MIT police officer was killed Thursday night before police killed one of the suspects and captured the other later on Friday.

Below is the full letter from Wilson:

It is with a heavy heart that I write to you again about events that are incomprehensible.  We all hope for a world that is safe and supportive for our children.  However, the tragic Boston Marathon bombings shake our feelings of comfort and safety.  As the school community comes together again on Monday, we will be prepared to support our students as we engage in our normal daily routines. We will be alert to students who may exhibit behaviors or ask questions that require our attention and support. Please do contact your school counselor, principal, or assistant principal if your child has been directly impacted by the Marathon bombings so that we are able to proactively check-in and provide the support needed.

Some families may be out of town and the full impact of the Marathon bombings may emerge upon return home.  Each child and adult will process the information in a unique way and we will do everything in our power to provide a consistent and supportive environment in all Sudbury public schools.  Below, please find links to articles that provide age/developmentally appropriate suggestions for parents when talking with children about the Marathon bombings.  

• http://commonhealth.wbur.org/2013/04/talk-children-marathon-bombs
• http://www.aboutourkids.org/articles/talking_kids_about_terrorism_or_acts_war http://www.nasponline.org/resources/crisis_safety/Helping_Children_Cope_With_Terrorism_2013.pdf

As a Sudbury community, we will find strength in working together and supporting each other through these difficult times.  We are undoubtedly united in the care and concern of the children entrusted to us.  By working together, we will reassure our students that the adults in their lives care deeply about their well-being.   

Respectfully,

Anne