It breaks my heart to have to write to our community about another school shooting at all, let alone in less than a week. All of us at LCPS grieve for the Harford community during this difficult time. As a parent with kids in school, I find myself grappling with the same thoughts and questions I know our community has. Thoughts about how imperative it is that we come together to end this horrific cycle of gun violence in schools. And questions about what it'll take for that end to become a reality.
I want to say again how seriously we take the safety of our students and staff in Loudoun County Public Schools. The Office of Safety and Security has rigorous plans in place at each of our schools to handle emergency situations. We work with our local law enforcement partners to prepare for emergencies and regularly practice our safety procedures with students and staff through discussions and emergency exercises. But our families are a critical part of having safe schools and I’m calling on you to continue to do your part at home.
I know how hard it is to continue to have difficult conversations about events like these with your families. Please take a moment to review these important resources that may help:
Talking to Children About Violence: Tips for Parents and Educators (National Association of School Psychologists)
Responsible Media Coverage of Crisis Events Impacting Children and Youth (National Association of School Psychologists)
School Safety and Crisis Resources (National Association of School Psychologists)
School Shooting Resources (The National Child Traumatic Stress Network)
We also have mental health professionals available to help any students with questions they may have or difficulties they might experience. Students or parents may reach out to SMHSleadershipteam@lcps.org and provide the best phone number to contact you. One of our team members will be in touch within 24 hours.
There is no room for gun violence in our schools. As a community, we must all remain steadfast in our commitment to fostering safe, supportive environments where our students can learn and thrive without fear.
Aaron Spence, Ed.D.
Superintendent