Reflecting on School Tragedies

Many are probably asking, “How can I make sense of what happened in Connecticut recently?”  The simple answer is, “We cannot.”  There is no way to comprehend what has happened in Newtown and the effects that it will have on that community, indeed, on our nation.  Psychologists, ministers, politicians and parents have all expressed the unfathomable sadness that settles upon us.  As people of faith, we know that these innocent victims will be reunited with their Heavenly Father, and this gives us comfort.  I do not know how people without faith deal with such loss.

As I walked through our school today, I felt confident that our children are as safe as possible.  Our gates are secure; we have safety procedures in place; access to our campus is extremely limited; we routinely practice code drills and fire drills.  Most importantly, the children are always with loving adults who take their responsibility to care for our children very seriously.

Our administrative team met today to explore ways of making our building even more secure.  We came up with a few ideas and you will hear more about them as the days go on. 

For now, concentrate on your children. 

·         Listen to those who express anxiety. 

·         Answer their questions in age appropriate ways.  For most, a brief, factual answer is best. 

·         Do not be afraid to use words like “died.”  They understand that better than “passed away” or “is gone.”  Those terms are too nebulous for children in the concrete stage of their development.

·         Assure the children that our school is as safe as is possible.  Tell them that they can ask questions of Mrs. Waters, their teachers or me if they want to know how we would deal with something similar in our school.

·         Pray as a family: for the children, the adults, the entire school community.

·         Hug your children and tell them how much you love them.  The loss of a child is something I would never want any of you to experience.  I have known that grief, and I have known the healing grace that God provides for those of us who must deal with it.

May God continue to bless our school community with health and happiness.