Hello PSD Parents and Families,

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Uvalde, Texas community for their tragic loss yesterday.  Unfortunately, such acts of violence are difficult to comprehend or explain.

Today, we realize that some of our students are coming to school aware of this latest school shooting. Many may be nervous, apprehensive or confused. Building principals and school counselors are aware of this and are prepared.

The Pendleton School District has many safety procedures in place, such as designated entrances and exits at our schools, safety drills and more. The safety of students and staff is the district’s top priority. It may be helpful to speak with your child and review what their school does every day to keep them safe.

Here are a few things that parents can do to help their child through a stressful time like this:

• Limit access to social media.
• Talk with children if they have concerns and focus on what they can do.
• If you are not comfortable sending your child to school in the wake of tragic events, work with your child’s school.
• If a student hears or becomes aware of others planning or talking of committing violent acts, they should report it to an adult immediately, or they can use the SafeOregon tip line at safeoregon.com. “If you hear something, say something.”
• If your child needs additional mental health support, reach out to your school counselor or family health provider.

This article from the Los Angeles Times has some good suggestions for talking to children about tragic events: How to Help Kids Get Through Unspeakable Horror

The school year is rapidly coming to a close. The Pendleton School District is committed to making the rest of this year as positive and supportive as we can for all students.

Thank you,
Chris Fritsch
Superintendent

Every Student, Every Day.