May 24, 2022
Dear NUSD Community,
My heart is heavy learning of the school shooting in Texas today. Our hearts and prayers go out to the families in Uvalde, Texas, and Robb Elementary School. It’s a tragedy no one should ever have to face.
Please know that your child’s safety, and the safety of our staff, is our primary concern, and we will continue to work together to ensure they always find school to be a safe place filled with learning, laughter, and building positive relationships with others.
Novato Unified continues to train its staff and students with shelter in place and lockdown drills every year and are prepared for a wide range of possible situations. Safety plans are updated and reviewed each year and district-wide safety meetings take place 4 times per year. We work closely with our law enforcement partners: the Novato Police Department, the Marin Sheriff’s Office and North Bay Security Group. Our SRO’s are an integral part of our safety plans and help keep our children safe. In addition, new construction allows for safety fences around our schools thanks to our community supporting Measure G bond Funds.
The National Association of School Psychologists notes there are effective ways to help students cope with such tragic events. You can find that and other resources below.
Please continue to keep the community of Uvalde and the students, teachers, staff, and parents of Robb Elementary School in your thoughts and prayers.
Jan La Torre-Derby
Superintendent
Talking to Children About Violence: Tips for Parents and Teachers – National Association of School Psychologists
How to Talk To Kids About School Shootings – Common Sense Media
Responding to School Violence – Tips for Administrators – National Association of School Psychologists
Anxiety Over School Shootings – Child Mind Institute
Helping Students Cope With A Violent World – Edutopia