Spartan Strong: Reminders about Lockdowns, Threats, and Talking with Children
This week we were all heartbroken to hear of another senseless act of gun violence. We know many people in our community are MSU alumni or have friends, family, and children who attend. Our hearts are with the MSU community.
Last week at our staff meeting and during our professional development day, staff met with our Director of School Safety and reviewed all ALICE protocols. We also practiced drill situations with staff. This week we will have a practice lockdown drill. It is always our priority that we have discussions with students that are age appropriate but also ensure that we all know the routines and procedures for school safety drills.
Gibraltar School District (GSD) has developed strong practices and protocols, taking every threat seriously. We work hand in hand with the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office who has made it explicitly clear that there is no tolerance for threats of violence in any school setting. If a student makes a threat, regardless if they state it was a joke, prank, or any other intention, the district will strictly enforce the Student Code of Conduct. We will do a threat assessment with the principal, social worker, parents, and student to investigate the level of threat and perceived risk. We know that students say things they don't mean, especially when upset or angry. However, saying "I'm going to kill myself" or "I'm going to kill you" will always warrant investigation. Here are some reminders for your child.
It is never appropriate to joke about weapons or make a claim of violence within a school setting.
If you hear or see something that causes concern to you, the first thing you should do is contact an adult.
If you share this concerning item electronically or otherwise with other students, you are part of the problem. Sharing only incites fear and possibly chaos that distracts from the learning/business of the school.
Once you have reported an issue to an adult, do not continue to discuss this with other students. If you feel the need to continue discussing this because it is on your mind, we have counselors who can talk about it with you.
Finally, The Guidance Center has an extensive list of resources on their website to help with talking to children about traumatic events. http://www.guidance-center.org/resources/
Calling All Future Marauders for Kindergarten 2023-2024
Calling All Actors!
Kids Heart Challenge
As of Friday, we have raised $5,009 towards our $8,000 goal. The class with the most students registered is Mrs. Scheetz's class!
Watch Dogs
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/409054caca922abfa7-watchdogs#/
Mrs. Aherne
Email: ahernes@gibdist.net
Website: https://www.gibdist.net/parsons-elementary
Location: Parsons Elementary School, Middle Gibraltar Road, Gibraltar, MI, USA
Phone: (734) 379-7050
