COLUMBIA PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Dr. Chris Belcher Superintendent of Schools

ADMINISTRATION BUILDING 1818 West Worley Street (573) 214-3400

Columbia, Missouri 65203 Fax: (573) 214-3401

December 14, 2012 Dear Parents and Guardians, The safety and well-being of our students and staff is a priority for Columbia Public Schools. Our goal is for all students to achieve high academic standards within a safe learning environment. Because of todays shooting incident in Connecticut, we think it is important to encourage you to be especially sensitive and prepared to offer support to your child during this time. Your child may want to talk to you about his or her feelings. Talking about feelings will help your child deal with this tragic event. Listen attentively. You may see behavior changes. Some things to look for might include: Restlessness, nervous behavior Trouble concentrating Difficulty sleeping, nightmares Clingy behavior, fear of being alone Asking questions over and over again Remembering previous losses and events When talking with your child about this traumatic situation, keep in mind: Children do not have to know everything about a violent situation in order to come to some understanding about it. Be sensitive to the childs questions, taking cues from what is asked and the level of cognitive and emotional development. Permit your child to talk about his or her feelings. Childrens concerns do not always reach us through conversation. Sometimes they come obliquely through play. Always make yourself available for conversation if the play leads naturally to talk. Show your understanding and caring when sharing news about this tragic event with your child. Talk at the childs eye level. Touch or hold him or her when appropriate. Hugs and sitting close can say a lot. If you have concerns regarding your childs reaction to this tragic event, contact your childs teachers, the school counselor or administrative staff. Thank you for your concern and support. Sincerely,

Chris Belcher Superintendent