Such sadness

It is with great sadness that I write this month’s blog.  Although December is a happy time of year for kids and their parents, the tragedy in Connecticut has added a heavy feeling of grief to the holiday, particularly among parents and educators.  In the aftermath of such an unspeakable horror, questions like “what”, “how”, and “why” are not easily answered by anyone.   I used this incident as an opportunity to remind all our administrators to review and refresh their individual emergency management plans and to remind staff of standard safety protocol.

Educators across the state and country are now ultrasensitive to any and all types of threats.  Here at Central Cambria, I believe our staff is vigilant in reporting, investigating and following up on any reported threat.  We encourage students to tell an adult anything they may have seen or heard, either in school or on any social media site. 

I join the world when I offer my sincere condolences to the families and relatives of those who were affected by this heinous act.  As President Obama stated in his speech at Newtown, CT:

"God has called them all home. For those of us who remain, let us find the strength to carry on, and make our country worthy of their memory.

"May God bless and keep those we’ve lost in His heavenly place. May He grace those we still have with His holy comfort, and may He bless and watch over this community, and the United States of America."

Experts suggest the following in light of any tragedy:

·      Parents should maintain as many routines as possible; don’t abandon normal school or household rules (e.g., bedtime, chores).

·      Be careful about sharing your own feelings of shock and surprise, especially with younger children; rather, use private times to ”debrief” with other adults.

·      Be prepared to offer support as children may revisit old fears.

·      Don’t feel every question must be answered. This may be an undue burden, and it is alright to say  something like “We are not sure why this  happened , but people are doing everything to be sure it does not happen again.”

Our counselors, administrators and teachers are available to any parent who has a concern about any anxiety their child or children may have over this event.  Please don’t hesitate to contact the school if you feel the need. 

Our goal will continue to be creating and maintaining a safe environment for all students and staff. Enjoy the holidays – Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Please hug your family and tell them you love them….

Dr. D.