Edina Schools Superintendent Addresses Newtown Shooting

Edina Public Schools Superintendent Ric Dressen addressed the school shooting that took place in Newtown, Conn. this past Friday, encouraging parents to monitor their children's reactions to the tragedy. His message, which is also available on the Edina Public Schools website, is copied below.

Dear Edina Public Schools families,

We in Edina Public Schools are all deeply saddened by the news of the shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut this morning. Our thoughts are with everyone coping with this tragedy, particularly those students, families, and school staff most directly affected. There are never enough answers to explain why something like this occurs.  In lieu of answers, we focus our energies on how we can support our students here at home.

It is important to recognize that every student will respond to news of this tragedy in different ways. I encourage you to observe how your own child may be reacting to news of this event, especially in light of the numerous, sometimes conflicting media reports, and provide an opportunity for them to talk about their feelings. A good resource in talking to children about tragic events can be found on the National Association of School Psychologists website.

Student safety has been, and will continue to be, a top priority in Edina Public Schools. We are constantly reviewing and updating our crisis plan, both internally with our staff and externally in partnership with local first responders, counselors and other community resources in an effort to ensure a safe and secure learning environment for our students and staff. While I recognize that even the best plan cannot prevent the tragic situation that happened in Connecticut today, it is of some comfort to know that we have such a plan in place and that we have a wealth of resources to call upon should the unfortunate need arise.

I am proud to be a part of this nurturing Edina Public Schools community. Let us continue to work together to keep our students safe and to make our schools and communities a welcoming place for everyone.

Warm regards,

Ric Dressen
Superintendent

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